Phenibut Review
Introduction
Phenibut, another of the compounds derived from GABA, was initially created in Russia during the 1960’s where it was utilized for its anti-anxiety effects.
Like GABA, it is a neurotransmitter that crosses the blood-brain barrier and also helps control muscle tone. Now available in the United States, it has become a supplement used for both its physical and nootropic effects.
Effects
Since it works as an inhibitor in the brain, it is generally credited with being an anxiolytic agent. This tranquilizing effect is credited with providing a more restful sleep which can lead to increased energy upon waking. Studies have also indicated that Phenibut has increased the resistance to heat stress which leads to improved working capacity as well as improving physical strength. Imagine that, happier and more productive exercise sessions!
From a medical standpoint, Phenibut has been used to treat Parkinson’s Disease with some limited success as well as the side effects of alcohol and morphine withdrawal.
Phenibut is most often compared with Piracetam, another GABA derived compound and, along with both Piracetam and Oxiracetam, is often being used to replace Aniracetam which is no longer available in the United States.
Considerations
Although having anti-anxiety properties, Phenibut is generally not recommended for long term treatment of General Anxiety Disorder. One of the side effects of Phenibut is a withdrawal or “hangover” effect following cessation of use due to GABA receptor down regulation and tolerance. Some recommend a three day cycle of Phenubit followed by a two to three day cessation period. This program has been shown to minimize the withdrawal symptoms.
As with anything, Phenibut can be abused such as overdosing as combining with alcohol and illegal drugs. In fact, some people have used Phenibut as a “party drug” in an effort to duplicate the effects of GHB
