Gas Station Drugs: What You Need to Know About This Hidden Threat
The Alarming Rise of Unregulated Substances in Everyday Places
As a parent, you naturally want to keep your children safe from harm, but some dangers are harder to recognize than others. One concerning risk that might be hiding in plain sight is the use of unregulated, over-the-counter substances often dubbed “gas station drugs.” These are actually legal substances that can be easily found at convenience stores, smoke shops, and online. They’re usually marketed as energy boosters, mood enhancers, or even dietary supplements.
Unfortunately, despite being legal, many of these substances can be quite addictive, dangerous, and even life-threatening, particularly for teens and young adults.
Here’s what you need to know.
“As of April 2025, six U.S. states have enacted statewide bans on kratom: Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin”
What Are Gas Station Drugs?
“Gas station drugs” is a broad term used to describe substances like:
Kratom is a plant-based product known for its opioid-like effects.
Tianeptine (also known as ZAZA, or gas station heroine) is often marketed as a supplement. For years, tianeptine was prescribed for depression in many countries.
Phenibut, also known as Fenibut, Phenybut, Noofen, Citrocard, Anvifen, and Gabba, is a central nervous system depressant that many people find helpful for managing anxiety and improving sleep. However, it's important to note that it has been banned in some countries.
Synthetic cannabinoids (like Spice and K2) are lab-made substances designed to mimic THC. However, they can come with some serious risks, such as psychosis, seizures, or heart problems. It's important to be aware of their potential effects!
Delta-8 THC (sometimes referred to using slang terms like "marijuana-lite" or "diet weed") is a cannabinoid that is gaining popularity for its perceived effects, nootropics, which are supplements purported to enhance cognitive function, and a range of substances often referred to as “herbal ecstasy".
These products attract consumers for various reasons, including their availability and the perception that being sold legally indicates safety. They come in flashy packaging with vague or misleading labels that often claim to be “natural,” “safe,” or “not for human consumption.” This labeling loophole allows these substances to evade FDA regulation.
Why Should Parents Be Concerned?
Easy Accessibility: In numerous locations, no identification is necessary. These substances are available at places frequented by children: gas stations, convenience stores, vape shops, and online platforms.
Assumed Safety: Due to their legal status, many teenagers perceive them as safe. However, they can result in severe side effects, such as anxiety, hallucinations, addiction, overdose, and withdrawal symptoms.
Lack of Knowledge: Numerous parents (and even some professionals) are unaware of these substances, which makes them challenging to recognize and address effectively.
Targeted Advertising: These items are frequently marketed straight to youth via social media and eye-catching branding. Their allure is subtle yet potent.
“Signs That Your Child Could Be Experimenting with Gas Station Substances
Sudden mood swings or agitation, trouble sleeping or staying awake, and unusual packaging, capsules, or powders found in their room. Additionally, noticeable changes in behavior or peer groups, and complaints about needing supplements to relax or focus. A sudden increase in visits to gas stations or head shops.”
Preventive measures and steps for parents, guardians, coaches, and teachersto take
Educate Yourself: Equip yourself with knowledge about various substances and their effects on health and behavior. This understanding will enable you to have informed discussions with your child. If you come across terms or concepts that you’re unfamiliar with during these conversations, don't hesitate to acknowledge your lack of knowledge; instead, utilize it as an opportunity for both of you to explore and learn together. This not only builds trust but also encourages your child to seek information without fear of judgment.
Develop open communication with your children from a young age. This practice fosters trust and allows children to express their thoughts and feelings freely. By encouraging dialogue, you can better understand their needs and guide them through their challenges.
Don’t be afraid to talk about these drugs: It’s crucial not to wait until you notice troubling behavior in your child before discussing the topic of substances. Open the dialogue early on, emphasizing the importance of understanding not just illegal drugs, but also legal substances like alcohol and nicotine. This proactive approach helps to demystify these topics and fosters a safe space for your child to express concerns or ask questions
Watch for Red Flags: Be observant of changes in your child’s behavior that might indicate substance use, such as changes in mood, hygiene, or social circles. If you notice anything concerning, it's essential to seek professional help. Counselors, pediatricians, or addiction specialists can provide valuable insights and strategies for addressing the situation effectively, making sure that your child receives the necessary support.
Model Healthy Coping: Recognize that teens are highly influenced by their surroundings, particularly by the behaviors of adults. By openly discussing your own emotions and demonstrating healthy coping mechanisms, such as exercise, mindfulness, or engaging in hobbies, you provide your child with positive examples to emulate. Showing vulnerability and sharing strategies for managing stress can empower them to adopt similar approaches when facing their own challenges.
Be A Safe Place for them to come to with any problem or concern: Create an environment where your teen feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or reprimand. When teens perceive their parents as a supportive and understanding presence, they are more likely to come to you in times of struggle. Practice active listening; focus on truly hearing what your child has to say, which reinforces their sense of safety and encourages open communication.
Final Thoughts
Gas station drugs might not be something every parent thinks about, but they really should! These products can be easily accessed and often marketed in ways that can mislead our curious or vulnerable youth. By staying informed, keeping the lines of communication open, and taking proactive steps, you can help protect your child from this hidden threat and lovingly guide them toward safer, healthier choices.
Need Assistance?
If you’re worried about your child’s substance use, reach out to a school counselor, a local mental health provider, or the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) is a great place to start for confidential support and resources.
Additional resources:
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline dial 988 is now the three-digit dialing code that routes callers to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
://al-I hope you find this information helpful. However, I must also mention that the advice given is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. I always recommend that you consult with a licensed professional in their field of expertise.
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References:
Tianeptine, an Antidepressant with Opioid Agonist Effects: Pharmacology and Abuse Potential, a Narrative Review https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10444703/
Drug Fact Sheet: Kratom
https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Kratom-2020_0.pdf
5 Things to Know About Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol: Delta-8 THC
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9312454/
Kratom https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/kratom
Phenibut Addiction in a Patient with Substance Use Disorder
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6758981/