Abstract

Common clinical problems associated with antidepressant therapy, are usage of a lower dose than recommended and cessation of the drug prematurely by the patients themselves. Withdrawal symptoms have been known for a long time, but other features of addiction, such as tolerance and compulsive drug use are very rare. The neurobiological properties of tianeptine involve a dynamic interplay between numerous neurotransmitter systems. The effects of tianeptine on the glutamatergic system can provide a key action in the cascade of events triggered by this compound and its antidepressant efficacy. In this article, with particular emphasis on the effects of tianeptine on the glutamatergic system, the abuse potential of the drug twas explained through a case with “Tianeptine addiction” diagnosis.

Key words: Antidepressant, addiction, tianeptine