Tianeptine as an opiate replacement in a patient on methadone treatment: A case report

Abstract

Tianeptine, an antidepressant and full μ-opioid receptor agonist, has increased in popularity and has been used as an over-the-counter supplement over the past decade. Due to its well-documented euphoric effects, there exists elevated risk for potential abuse. Buprenorphine–naloxone has been successfully utilized to treat opioid use disorder (OUD) in patients concurrently using tianeptine, limiting withdrawal symptoms and abstinence. However, there is limited evidence on the management of tianeptine use disorder, specifically methadone or naltrexone. The current opioid epidemic, the emerging use of tianeptine, and the lack of physician awareness have emphasized the need for further research on the role of tianeptine in medication-assisted treatment for OUD. This case report aims to demonstrate how medication-assisted therapy can be successfully utilized in a patient with opioid and severe other (tianeptine) drug use disorder.