Health
‘Gas station heroin’ is growing threat in New Jersey, health officials warn: ‘Dangerous and addictive’
![‘Gas station heroin’ is growing threat in New Jersey, health officials warn: ‘Dangerous and addictive’ ‘Gas station heroin’ is growing threat in New Jersey, health officials warn: ‘Dangerous and addictive’](https://static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/02/teen-shopping-convenience-store.jpg)
A dangerous drug is causing a spike of illnesses in New Jersey, health officials warn — and in many cases, the drug is being sold on the shelves of corner convenience stores.
Neptune’s Elixir and ZaZa Red — also referred to as “gas station heroin” — are just two of the products that are being marketed as dietary supplements. They’re sold in gas stations and on the internet, according to a health alert from the New Jersey Department of Health.
Between June and Nov. 2023, there were 20 reported cases of tianeptine causing “severe clinical effects” in New Jersey, as noted in a Feb. 1 alert from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
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This is a significant spike from the two or fewer calls the poison center typically receives each year.
What is tianeptine?
Tianeptine is a tricyclic antidepressant that has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Some companies market the drug as an aid for pain, anxiety and depression, or as a means of improving mental alertness.
Neptune’s Fix Elixir is one of the products being marketed as dietary supplements and sold in gas stations and online, according to a health alert from the New Jersey Department of Health. Fox News Digital reached out to Neptune Resources and others for comment. (FDA’s Office of Regulatory Affairs, Health Fraud Branch)
It is also sometimes billed as a “safer” alternative to opioids — but experts are warning that it has highly addictive and dangerous properties.
“Tianeptine interacts with opioid receptors in the brain, and in larger doses, can mimic the effects of traditional heroin such as euphoria, but also the consequences frequently associated with tolerance, withdrawal and toxicity,” Dr. David Campbell, clinical and program director of Recover Together Bend in Oregon, told Fox News Digital.
“With such ease of access, even kids are getting caught in the crossfire.”
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Tianeptine can be sold as a pill, powder, salt or in liquid form as a supplement — or as an active ingredient in a supplement — and is widely available in many states, noted Dr. Adam Scioli, corporate medical director and head of psychiatry at Caron Treatment Centers in Philadelphia.
“We have seen patients come in having gotten tianeptine over the internet or at gas stations,” Scioli told Fox News Digital. “They often suffer from withdrawal symptoms similar to those of an opioid withdrawal and often need medication-assisted treatment such as buprenorphine.”
![Teen convenience store](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/02/1200/675/teen-shopping-convenience-store.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
“With such ease of access, even kids are getting caught in the crossfire,” an addiction specialist warned. (iStock)
“Why it is being sold commercially as an active ingredient in a supplement in everyday settings is beyond me.”
The widespread availability and ease of accessibility at gas stations, minimarts and smoke shops is one of the main reasons people seek it out, Scioli said.
“These are dangerous, addictive substances with potentially fatal outcomes.”
“There is also this ongoing misconception that if something is easily accessible, legal in some states and available, it is safe — which isn’t true of several substances, not just products that contain tianeptine,” Scioli warned.
“These are dangerous, addictive substances with potentially fatal outcomes.”
Dangers of tianeptine
Scioli called tianeptine a “substance of abuse” that can be addictive and fatal.
“Tricyclic antidepressants have what we call a narrow, therapeutic index, meaning that it is fairly easy to tip into the non-therapeutics/toxic range,” he said.
![Sick teen](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/02/1200/675/sick-teen.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Among tianeptine’s significant and severe withdrawal symptoms, according to Campbell, are nausea, vomiting, confusion, flu-like symptoms, depression, anxiety, coma and even respiratory failure and overdose. (iStock)
“Tricyclic antidepressants in and of themselves can also cause seizures, electrolyte abnormality and death in overdose. Symptoms will be similar to an opioid withdrawal or overdose.”
Among tianeptine’s significant and severe withdrawal symptoms, according to Campbell, are nausea, vomiting, confusion, flu-like symptoms, depression, anxiety, coma and even respiratory failure and overdose.
Calls for regulation and awareness
In 2023, the FDA posted an alert warning of the dangers of Neptune’s Fix or any other product containing tianeptine.
“FDA has received severe adverse event reports after use of Neptune’s Fix products, including seizures and loss of consciousness leading to hospitalization,” the agency stated.
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“FDA considers tianeptine to be a substance that does not meet the statutory definition of a dietary ingredient and is an unsafe food additive. The FDA is aware of several serious adverse event reports associated with tianeptine.”
Scioli pointed out that several states — including Florida, Kentucky, Michigan and Ohio — have made tianeptine illegal to sell.
“Despite that, companies are marketing and selling products containing tianeptine to consumers,” he warned.
![FDA sign](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2023/10/1200/675/FDA.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
In 2023, the FDA posted an alert warning of the dangers of Neptune’s Fix or any other product containing tianeptine. (REUTERS/Andrew Kelly/File Photo)
Campbell of Recover Together Bend in Oregon echoed the need for greater regulation of tianeptine.
“The FDA ought to be called upon to act now before the increasing use of this substance and other ‘gas station drugs’ leads to yet another drug epidemic in this country,” he said.
“Until the time comes when tianeptine is more strictly regulated or preferably banned, prevention and education must take center stage for parents, schools and other institutions to curtail the scope of underage use,” he added.
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Mark Stovall, regional executive director for American Addiction Centers in Mississippi, noted that the FDA has urged convenience stores, gas stations and other organizations to stop selling tianeptine products, but said there needs to be increased awareness of non-approved FDA drugs and supplements to prevent severe health risks and addictions.
“With such ease of access, even kids are getting caught in the crossfire.”
“If you have an inkling of gas station drugs being sold in the future, be empowered to apply community pressure,” Stovall advised in an interview with Fox News Digital.
“Take initiative by visiting your local gas station and ask them why they’re selling these addictive drugs. Explain the dangers and ask them to stop selling before more individuals are negatively impacted. Talk with your local law enforcement. Some local officials have already started to control these dangerous substances even without federal involvement.”
![Hospital treatment](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/02/1200/675/hospital-treatment.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Anyone who is using tianeptine or a product containing tianeptine and is experiencing withdrawal symptoms should seek emergency medical assistance, experts say. (iStock)
The experts also urged parents and caregivers to be aware of the risk to kids and teens.
“With so many supplements and substances easily available to children through the internet and stores, it is imperative that parents, guardians and schools become educated — not just about the substances and their effects, but also about how to talk to children and teens about them,” said Scioli.
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“An open dialogue is imperative, especially with the proliferation of adulterated drugs sold online. With the overdose risk, there is no safe experimentation.”
On Jan. 28, 2024, Neptune Resources, LLC, the maker of Neptune’s Fix, issued a voluntary recall of its products due to the presence of tianeptine — but experts are warning that other products may also contain the drug.
Fox News Digital reached out to Neptune Resources, LLC — based in Kansas City, Missouri, according to the FDA’s announcement of the recall — as well as to MRSS Inc. (maker of ZaZa Red) and Super Chill Products, a New York-based distributor of Neptune’s products that has since issued a recall.
Comments were also requested from the FDA and the New Jersey Department of Health.
![Parent teen talking](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/02/1200/675/parent-teen-talk.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Experts urged parents and caregivers to be aware of the risk to kids and teens and to maintain an open dialogue. (iStock)
Anyone who is using tianeptine or a product containing tianeptine and is experiencing withdrawal symptoms can call the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical assistance, experts advised.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.
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Health
Saunas have health benefits, but overuse is linked to dangerous health risks
![Saunas have health benefits, but overuse is linked to dangerous health risks Saunas have health benefits, but overuse is linked to dangerous health risks](https://static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/sauna-friends.jpg)
Taking time to sit in a sauna can be a great way to decompress after a grueling workout or even a stressful day.
While in a sauna, you can add to the relaxation by reading your favorite book, listening to a motivational podcast or just by closing your eyes, taking deep breaths and sweating the stress away.
Saunas are commonly found at gyms and spas, but you can buy one for your home.
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A sauna offers health benefits, but it’s also important to be mindful of risks.
- What are the different types of saunas?
- What are the health benefits that come from sauna use?
- How long is it safe to go in the sauna?
- Are there any risks of sauna use I should be aware of?
A sauna is full of health benefits, but it also poses risk if not used properly or if used with certain underlying health conditions. (iStock)
1. What are the different types of saunas?
A sauna is “a specific room heated to about 150 to 195 (F) degrees, and where the temperature and humidity of the room can be controlled with sprinkling water on the rocks in the heater/stove,” according to the North American Sauna Society’s website.
Some of the most commonly found saunas are wood-burning saunas, electrically heated saunas, manufactured sauna rooms, smoke saunas, steam rooms and infrared rooms.
For the most part, many of the health benefits are consistent no matter what type of sauna you use.
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“While many benefits overlap, steam may be better for respiratory issues, far infrared for weight loss and recovery,” Dr. Brooke Jeffy, a board-certified dermatologist from Scottsdale, Arizona, and founder of youth skin care brand BTWN, told Fox News Digital via email.
2. What are the health benefits that come from sauna use?
There are several different health benefits that come along with sauna use.
“Both steam and dry saunas can have beneficial effects on respiratory conditions, cardiovascular disease and dementia,” Jeffy said.
“They also help stiff muscles and joints and increase circulation to the skin. Both steam and infrared saunas have beneficial effects on blood pressure. Infrared saunas may improve weight loss when combined with exercise and improve muscle recovery.”
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The time at which you use a sauna doesn’t matter, according to Jeffy. Either a morning sweat or a relaxing sit in the sauna before bed can boast health benefits.
Many people also choose to hop in a sauna after a workout.
“Post-workout sessions help improve weight control and muscle recovery,” Jeffy said.
![A woman sitting in the sauna](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/1200/675/woman-sitting-sauna.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
It’s common to sit in a sauna after completing a workout. (iStock)
3. How long is it safe to go in the sauna?
When in a sauna, make sure you keep track of how long you’ve been inside.
Many gym saunas have a clock, so you don’t have to take your phone inside, potentially causing it to overheat.
If there isn’t a timer or clock available, make sure to bring one with you or set an alarm to sound so you know when it’s time to exit.
For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle
“The maximum time to spend in the dry sauna or steam room is about 15-20 minutes,” Jeffy said. “Infrared sauna can be used longer, anywhere from 20-40 minutes.”
4. Are there any risks of sauna use I should be aware of?
While sauna use does include benefits, there are also risks you should be aware of if you decide to add it to your routine.
The risks include dehydration, heat exhaustion and stroke, according to Jeffy.
![Woman drinking water](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/1200/675/woman-drinking-water.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Make sure to drink water to keep yourself hydrated while in a sauna. (iStock)
To avoid potential dehydration, bring a bottle of water into the sauna with you.
If you aren’t a regular sauna user already, consider a slow progression to allow your body to adjust and slowly begin increasing the time you sit inside.
Lastly, if you are pregnant, sick, intoxicated or prone to dizziness, you should not use a sauna, according to Jeffy.
“Saunas should not be used if you have had a recent heart attack, or history of angina, aortic stenosis or congestive heart failure,” Jeffy added.
Health
‘Is it bad to skip breakfast if I’m not hungry?’: Ask a doctor
![‘Is it bad to skip breakfast if I’m not hungry?’: Ask a doctor ‘Is it bad to skip breakfast if I’m not hungry?’: Ask a doctor](https://static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/woman-not-hungry-breakfast.jpg)
You’ve likely heard the old adage that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but what if you’re just not hungry in the morning?
Is it OK to consistently skip the morning meal and hold off until lunch?
Fox News Digital asked some nutritionists about the potential ramifications of bypassing breakfast on a regular basis and their recommendations for optimizing metabolism with a healthy morning routine.
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While most experts agree it’s OK to skip breakfast once in a while, it’s generally beneficial to eat something within an hour or two of waking up.
While most experts agree it’s OK to skip breakfast once in a while, it’s generally beneficial to eat something within an hour or two of waking up. (iStock)
“Skipping breakfast regularly could lead to some unwanted side effects,” Shelley Balls, registered dietitian and owner at Fueling Your Lifestyle in Smoot, Wyoming, told Fox News Digital.
“It can lead to an overconsumption of foods in the following meals throughout the day. You may think you’re eating fewer calories, but you might actually be binging at lunch or dinner,” she said.
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Never eating breakfast can also affect energy levels, she warned, as the body isn’t getting the carbohydrates and nutrients it needs to perform optimally.
There could also be a long-term effect of slowing down the metabolism, the expert said.
“Breakfast is meant to break the overnight fast, and can help jump-start your metabolism. So, over time, not eating breakfast could decrease your metabolism, as your body becomes more efficient with fewer calories,” Balls said.
![Bacon eggs toast](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/1200/675/bacon-eggs-toast.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Protein in the morning usually leads to a higher calorie burn and helps to reduce hunger later in the day, experts say. (iStock)
Breakfast has been associated with a bevy of benefits, including better weight management, better cognitive function, increased metabolism, improved energy and reduced hunger, according to Vanessa King, registered dietitian nutritionist and media spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in Oahu, Hawaii.
“Breakfast gives you an energy boost to power-start your day,” King told Fox News Digital.
“Not eating breakfast could decrease your metabolism, as your body becomes more efficient on fewer calories.”
“Breaking an overnight fast with a balanced breakfast significantly impacts well-being and overall health,” she added. “It’s important for everyone. And for children and teens, eating breakfast has been associated with better behavior and academic performance.”
If you’re not hungry within an hour or two of waking up, King suggests looking at your eating pattern.
“Are you snacking at night and it’s leaving you full in the morning? Try lighter snacks and allow more time between your last meal and sleep,” she advised.
The fasting factor
For people who are following a plan of intermittent fasting or time-restricted feeding, eliminating breakfast is a common way to maintain a shorter eating window and a longer fasting stretch, according to Dr. Jennie Stanford, an obesity medicine physician in Pennsylvania and medical contributor for Drugwatch.
“One main determinant here is how someone feels later in the day,” she told Fox News Digital.
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If skipping breakfast makes you feel ravenous later in the day, ultimately causing you to overconsume at other meals, this is not recommended, the doctor said.
“However, if not eating breakfast doesn’t impact the calories and other macronutrients they consume as the day progresses, it may represent an opportunity to decrease overall calorie intake,” Stanford added.
Lighter options for when you’re not hungry
“If you’re not ready for a full meal, begin with something small within 30 to 60 minutes of waking,” recommends Chloë Ward, a functional diagnostic nutrition practitioner and certified integrative nutrition health coach in Santa Barbara, California.
“Even a light snack can help signal to your body that it’s time to start burning energy.”
![Woman eating breakfast](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/1200/675/woman-eating-breakfast-on-couch.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
“Breakfast gives you an energy boost to power-start your day,” an expert told Fox News Digital. (iStock)
Ward offers the following breakfast suggestions for someone who’s not generally hungry in the morning but wants to kick-start metabolism.
- Smoothies: A nutrient-dense smoothie with ingredients like spinach, a small amount of fruit, protein powder and healthy fats (like avocado or nut butter) can be a light yet satisfying option.
- Greek yogurt with berries: Greek yogurt is rich in protein and can be paired with a handful of berries and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for added fiber and healthy fats.
- Overnight Oats: Preparing oats the night before with milk, chia seeds and a dash of cinnamon can create a light and easy-to-digest breakfast that’s ready when you wake up.
- Protein-rich snack: A hard-boiled egg, a piece of turkey or chicken, or a small serving of cottage cheese can be a quick and light protein boost.
- A piece of fruit with nut butter: Slices of apple or banana with a spoonful of almond or peanut butter offer a balance of carbs, protein and healthy fats without being too heavy.
![Strawberries and blueberries](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2023/11/1200/675/strawberries-blueberries-yogurt.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Greek yogurt is rich in protein and can be paired with a handful of berries and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for added fiber and healthy fats, a nutritionist said. (iStock)
Overall, experts agree that healthy options like fruits, whole grains, dairy, protein and vegetables provide the biggest benefit.
“Protein has a higher thermogenic effect than other macronutrients, meaning it requires more energy (heat) to break it down than either fats or carbohydrates,” Stanford told Fox News Digital.
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“As such, having protein in the morning usually leads to a higher calorie burn, at least temporarily.”
Protein also helps to reduce hunger later in the day, Stanford said.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health
“Protein doesn’t have to mean meat, if it sounds too heavy in the morning,” she noted.
“Other good protein sources include low-sugar Greek yogurt, eggs, low-carb breakfast wraps, cheese, protein oats, protein shakes or clean protein bars.”
“Even a light snack can help signal to your body that it’s time to start burning energy.”
If you really can’t tolerate food in the morning, Ward suggests starting the day with a glass of warm water, possibly with lemon.
“Warm water helps wake up your digestive system, aids in hydration and can boost your metabolism after a night of fasting,” she said.
Health
Hit a Weight Loss Plateau? A Dietitian Reveals 3 Ways To Break It
![Hit a Weight Loss Plateau? A Dietitian Reveals 3 Ways To Break It Hit a Weight Loss Plateau? A Dietitian Reveals 3 Ways To Break It](https://www.womansworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/weight-loss-plateau-woman-on-scale-1.jpg?quality=86&strip=all)
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