MEDIUMFederal Register

Schedules of Controlled Substances: Placement of Tianeptine in Schedule I

Published Jul 8, 2026Source: Federal RegisterView original

Summary

The DEA is proposing to place tianeptine into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, which would subject its manufacture, distribution, research, and possession to strict federal controls and criminal sanctions. While tianeptine is a small-molecule antidepressant rather than a true peptide, it is commonly sold within the same gray-market research chemical and supplement supply channels, so vendors and researchers handling it would face significant compliance obligations if finalized.

AI Analysis

Key Changes

•Proposes placing tianeptine, including its isomers, esters, ethers, and salts, into Schedule I
•Would impose full Schedule I regulatory controls on manufacturing, distribution, import/export, and possession
•Research and instructional/chemical analysis activities would require DEA Schedule I registration
•Handlers would be subject to administrative, civil, and criminal sanctions
•This is a proposed rule, not yet a final/effective action

Affected Peptides

tianeptine

Action Required

Vendors currently selling tianeptine should prepare to cease distribution or obtain Schedule I registration; researchers should evaluate existing inventory, secure proper DEA registration, and submit comments during the public comment period before finalization.

Full Document Text

The Drug Enforcement Administration proposes placing the substance tianeptine (7-[(3-chloro-6,11-dihydro-6-methyl-5,5- dioxidodibenzo[c,f][1,2]thiazepin-11-yl)amino]heptanoic acid), including its isomers, esters, ethers, salts, and salts of isomers, esters, and ethers whenever the existence of such isomers, esters, ethers, salts, and salts of isomers, esters, and ethers is possible, in schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. If finalized, this action would impose the regulatory controls and administrative, civil, and criminal sanctions applicable to schedule I controlled substances on persons who handle (manufacture, distribute, reverse distribute, import, export, engage in research, conduct instructional activities or chemical analysis with, or possess) or propose to handle tianeptine.

Alert created: Jul 9, 2026, 1:01 AM