Phenibut is created from the inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA. To create Phenibut, a phenyl ring is added to the GABA structure to create a bioavailable alteration of the neurotransmitter that can easily cross the blood-brain-barrier. It was initially developed in the mid-1960s by a Soviet researcher named V.V. Perekalin and has become a standard issue for all Russian cosmonauts. In Russia, Phenibut capsules are classified as a psychotropic drug, but in the United States they are classified as a supplement. Many people use it for anxiety or as a sleep aid.
Mechanism of Action
Phenibut capsules are believed to work similarly to the inhibitory GABA neurotransmitter by modulating GABA receptors. By working as an agonist of GABA receptors, this substance is able to creative sedative effects that help to calm the central nervous system. It believed that Phenibut works similarly to alcohol by binding to the GABA-b receptor sites. Higher dosages may also have an effect on GABA-a receptor sites.
Through these mechanisms, Phenibut capsules may calm the central nervous system. Modulation of GABA receptors are the most common drug therapy used to combat anxiety and insomnia. It is likely that Phenibut capsules work in a similar way however with this comes caution, these types of substances can build tolerance fast leading to a range of negative side effects. For this reason, they should be cycled and used sparingly. Phenibut is not a nootropic however it is commonly used alongside nootropic stacks to help relieve stress and insomnia that may be associated with heavy workload.
- May Reduce Anxiety
- May Lower Stress
- Could Help to Reduce Insomnia
- Possibly Relieves Fatigue
Possible Side Effects
Phenibut is not a nootropic and therefore can have some side-effects that are uncommon to the nootropic family. Because it is so widely used around the world, there are many ongoing studies regarding the effects of Phenibut that seem to be creating conflicting information. Most nootropics avoid major side effects, but users should be aware that Phenibut is NOT a nootropic and can produce some potentially serious side effects especially if it is not used correctly.
Phenibut capsules should never be combined with other GABAergic substances like alcohol or benzodiazepines. Combining these substances may create lapses in memory, loss of coordination or even death. Users should also avoid driving or operating machinery while on Phenibut. The main use of Phenibut is as a sleep aid, anxiolytic or stress reliever in times of need.
Tolerance to Phenibut capsules may have negative consequences such as dependence or withdrawal. Phenibut capsules are not meant to be used every day or in high dosages. Users should practice “cycling” to avoid dependence and tolerance. The recommended maximum times to use Phenibut each week is 2. Going above this may put you at risk of getting addicted and building tolerance. Side effects of withdrawal may include: anxiety, insomnia, irritability and depression. Using above the recommended dosages may make these side effects even more of a risk.
Phenibut should not be used in a nootropic stack unless it is for anxiety or sleep and used in proper dosages. Higher dosages will affect your cognitive ability to a degree that is anti-nootropic in nature. A dosage of Phenibut may help to improve sleep by reducing insomnia that may be associated with overworking. Using cautiously and in times of need, is the best way to use Phenibut capsules.
If you are using Phenibut to help reduce anxiety, it is best to be careful. Do not plan to use it every day or in high dosages. Although Phenibut capsules may be very effective for one’s anxiety, it is wise to understand that it will lose its effects overtime if abused. Many people combine low dosages of Phenibut with L-Theanine, and Aniracetam or Noopept to create an effective anti-anxiety stack.
The Pros and Cons of Phenibut Capsules
Using Phenibut either by itself or in a stack may become difficult, especially when you are dealing with larger amounts of each compound. Capsules make it much easier to get the right combination of each compound and may reduce side effects that could occur from taking too much. The one big con of Phenibut capsules is that they are a bit more costly. But the convenience of portability and saved time makes capsules the best option for many people.
Phenibut in HCL form is also very horrible tasting to many people. Taking it in capsule form eliminates the taste which many cannot handle. For these people, capsules may be the only option to take this supplement.