The regulatory status of Tianeptine Sodium Salt presents a complex and evolving picture, varying significantly across different countries and jurisdictions. While approved and prescribed as an antidepressant in many parts of the world, including France, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, it notably lacks FDA approval in the United States. This discrepancy has led to a fragmented regulatory approach, with some US states enacting bans while the drug remains technically available through online channels and retail stores.

The widespread availability of tianeptine in unregulated forms, particularly powder, has exacerbated public health concerns. Marketed under various street names and often misrepresented as a nootropic or supplement, its potent opioid-like effects and high abuse potential have led to a surge in calls to poison control centers and a growing number of reported overdose and fatality cases. The FDA has issued warnings, highlighting the dangers of these products, which are frequently adulterated with other harmful substances.

Efforts to control tianeptine's distribution in the US are ongoing, with state-level bans and proposed federal legislation aiming to classify it as a controlled substance. Understanding this shifting regulatory landscape is crucial for researchers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers alike. The challenge lies in balancing potential therapeutic benefits with the significant risks posed by its recreational use and illicit market proliferation. Ensuring access to reliable information and promoting responsible usage is key to mitigating the negative impacts of this complex compound.