Kuzma’s Bill to Make ‘Gas Station Heroin’ Illegal Passes House

June 15, 2026

HARRISBURG – The House today passed Rep. Andrew Kuzma’s (R-Allegheny/Washington) legislation to make tianeptine, also known as “gas station heroin,” illegal in the Commonwealth.

“Tianeptine, an antidepressant, can produce feelings of euphoria that mimic the effects of heroin and other opioids, making it highly addictive,” Kuzma said. “Unfortunately, since I first introduced this legislation three years ago, the problem has only become more widespread. I have heard from individuals and families throughout the Commonwealth about the devastating impact this drug has had on their lives.”

House Bill 377 would prevent the manufacture, delivery or possession of tianeptine, commonly sold by the names Zaza, Coaxil, Tianna or Stablon. Individuals convicted of violating the law could face penalties of up to five years imprisonment and a fine of up to $15,000.

Tianeptine is a prescription drug in Europe but often sold as an ingredient in products sold in gas stations and online in the United States. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved it for use. U.S. businesses are selling it by labeling it not for human consumption or adding it to dietary supplements. In April, Fayette County Coroner Bob Baker called for a nationwide ban after his county experienced its first overdose due to the drug.

Fifteen states, including Connecticut, Georgia, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Tennessee, have passed identical laws.

“We cannot afford to wait for federal action while this dangerous substance continues to harm our communities,” Kuzma added. “Every day that passes is another opportunity for addiction, overdose and tragedy. We have a responsibility to act now to protect our citizens, particularly our young people, from a drug that has no legitimate place in the retail marketplace.”

The bill now goes to the Senate for its consideration.

The 39th Legislative District includes Elizabeth, Forward and South Park townships and Elizabeth, Jefferson Hills, Pleasant Hills and West Elizabeth boroughs in Allegheny County; and Union and part of Carroll townships, Finleyville and New Eagle boroughs, and the city of Monongahela in Washington County.

Representative Andrew Kuzma
39th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Tracy Polovick
717.260.6358
tpolovick@pahousegop.com
RepKuzma.com / Facebook.com/RepKuzma