Role of cultural interaction in tianeptine abuse and different application methods

Abstract

Tianeptine is a selective serotonin reuptake enhancer, possessing strong antidepressant and anxiolytic properties. Its relative lack of sedative, anticholinergic and cardiovascular side effects makes it a highly tolerable substance of abuse. However, physical dependence quickly develops and withdrawal symptoms are common. Abusers in Georgia and Armenia use tianeptine by intravenous injection. Drug abusing behaviour usually starts during puberty, since it stems from psychologic, social and cultural circumstances. Sociodemographic studies show that drug abusing behaviour in Turkey varies according to region and substance. This paper investigates differences between Georgian foreigners and the local population in the eastern Black Sea region in terms of tianeptine abuse and discusses complications resulting from intravenous injection of tiapentine. © 2013 by Turkish Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Society.