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Phenibut

What is phenibut?

Phenibut, also known as Fenibut, is a derivative of GABA, a neurotransmitter that is able to cross the blood-brain barrier. Phenibut was discovered in Russia and has been used there for a wide range of applications since the 1960s. Phenibut is usually compared to Valium, with which it shares certain similarities, but from which it also differs in some respects. Phenibut has anxiolytic and nootropic properties. From a structural point of view, GABA, phenibut, PEA and baclofen are similar. GABA is the key inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. The combination of GABA with a phenyl ring makes it easier for phenibut to cross the barrier between blood and brain. In addition, the phenyl ring changes the activity profile. Due to its structural similarity to PEA, phenibut may also share some of the properties of PEA, although there are also differences. When Phenibut and PEA are taken together, the mixture can provoke effects such as hyperthermia, agitation and seizures.

Phenibut is known to increase dopamine levels, and its structural similarity to PEA is believed to play a key role in this ability.

Where does phenibut come from?

Phenibut was discovered in the former Soviet Union and is synthetically produced from GABA.

Benefits of Phenibut

Phenibut has a rich and impressive history. Soon after its discovery, it was used throughout the USSR and even found its way into the equipment of Soviet cosmonauts.

Benefits of Phenibut for sleep

The most common uses of phenibut in recent years have been as an anxiolytic and as a sleep aid. It is well documented that Phenibut improves sleep quality and prolongs the duration of sleep. In addition, Phenibut has a calming effect that is not the result of sedative effects. Such a calming and sleep quality improving effect can be beneficial for bodybuilders, as the body's own growth hormones are released during deep sleep phases and sleep and rest are also very important for regeneration.

Benefits of Phenibut for mental performance

Studies conducted with animals have shown that Phenibut supplementation in mice resulted in significantly improved reaction times. In addition, animals treated with Phenibut performed better in mental performance tests.

Benefits of Phenibut for general well-being

Dopamine is a hormone responsible for feelings of well-being and pleasure. Phenibut is known to stimulate dopamine receptors, which can result in similar feelings of overall well-being. Studies conducted with animals have shown that rabbits coped better with emotionally negative situations after administration of phenibut. Thus, Phenibut may be helpful during periods of increased stress and distress.

Disadvantages and side effects

A potential disadvantage is that studies with this ingredient were primarily conducted in Russia. It is therefore difficult to find studies with a good study design that are written in English.

The use of phenibut has been widespread in Russia for decades and this ingredient has been shown to be quite safe, especially when compared to benzodiazepine. However, there are documented cases of individuals who have developed a tolerance to the effects of Phenibut, which can result in higher doses and ultimately withdrawal symptoms. These withdrawal symptoms are similar to those seen with benzodiazepine and include insomnia, hallucinations and anxiety. It is therefore strongly recommended not to increase the dosage beyond the recommended dosage.

Who can benefit from taking Phenibut?

Because Phenibut is associated with a wide range of health benefits, many adults who suffer from a variety of health issues may consider taking Phenibut. This includes adults who suffer from anxiety, insomnia, PTS and stuttering. In addition to this, Phenibut can increase physical strength and improve mental alertness.

Recommended dosage

The recommended dosage is around 250 mg, taken as needed. When Phenibut is used to improve sleep, it is generally recommended that it should be taken about 2 hours before going to bed. Phenibut should be used cyclically as a habituation effect occurs over time.

Phenibut supplements

Phenibut is available in the form of monopreparations for the treatment of insomnia, anxiety and other disorders. It is also sometimes found as an ingredient in growth hormone supplements. The addition of Phenibut to an amino acid blend formulated to promote growth hormone release during sleep can maximize this effect through synergistic effects.

Combinations with other supplements

Phenibut can be combined with supplements that are intended to be taken before sleep. This includes growth hormone supplements and micellar casein. However, Phenibut should not be combined with other sedatives or supplements designed to promote sleep without medical supervision.

References

  1. Lapin (2001), Phenibut (â-Phenyl-GABA): A Tranquilizer and Nootropic Drug. CNS Drug Reviews, 7: 471-481
  2. Lapin (2009), From the Inside. Luniver Press, Beckington
  3. Lovisa et al (2012), Psychotic symptoms during phenibut (beta-phenyl-gamma-aminobutyric acid) withdrawal. Journal of Substance Use, doi:10.3109/14659891.2012.668261
  4. Makarov et al (1997), Experimental bases of the use of pharmacologic agents aimed at higher heat resistance of humans as means of individual protection. Med Tr Prom Ekol, 5: 35-38
  5. Odujebe et al (2008), Phenibut Withdrawal - A Novel "Nutritional Supplement". Clinical Toxicology, 46: 605
  6. Shulgina et al (2009), The Influence of Agonists of GABAA and GABAB Receptors on the Formation of the Defensive and Inhibitory Conditioned Reflexes. Doklady Biological Sciences, 429: 497-499
  7. ZyablitsevaI & Pavlova (2010), Effects of the GABA Receptor Agonist Phenibut on Spike Activity and Interactions between Neocortex and Hippocampus Neurons in Emotionally Negative Situations. Neuroscience & Behavioral Physiology, 40: 1001-1011