FDA Tianeptine Warning, SURMOUNT-5 Insights, and Social Prescribing Benefits
Morning Medical with Dr. Chow
A daily update covering the latest medical & health news from around the world using artificial intelligence. Doctor Chi-Ming Chow is a family physician, general internist, and cardiologist. He is also a Professor of Medicine at the University of Toronto.
Chi-Ming Chow
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FDA Tianeptine Warning, SURMOUNT-5 Insights, and Social Prescribing Benefits

E223 • May 13, 2025 • 19 mins

In this episode, Dr. Chi-Ming Chow opens with a discussion on the FDA's warning about "gas station heroin" and the risks associated with tianeptine use. He then compares tirzepatide and semaglutide, sharing insights from the SURMOUNT-5 trial. The episode continues with findings from the BedMed trial, exploring the impact of timing on antihypertensive medication efficacy. Dr. Chow also delves into bedtime listening habits, offering strategies for improving sleep. The concept of social prescribing is introduced, highlighting its benefits and potential to tackle loneliness and societal issues. The episode concludes with a summary and wrap-up of key points.

Key Points

  • Tianeptine, also known as "gas station heroin," poses severe health risks including agitation, confusion, coma, and death, and is being sold in places like gas stations and convenience stores despite not being FDA-approved.
  • The SURMOUNT-5 trial revealed that tirzepatide leads to more significant weight loss and greater reductions in waist circumference and systolic blood pressure compared to semaglutide in patients with obesity.
  • The BedMed trial found no significant difference in cardiovascular outcomes between taking antihypertensive medications in the morning versus at bedtime, emphasizing the importance of medication adherence over specific dosing times.
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