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What is Phenibut?
Phenibut is a “nootropic” drug that has several effects on the body and nervous system. A nootropic drug is one that enhances memory or stimulates specific areas of the brain. It has also been used to treat conditions like anxiety and insomnia.
The technical name for the drug is Beta-phenyl-gamma-aminobutyric acid. It is a derivative of Gamma Amino Butyric Acid or GABA, a neurotransmitter. A nervous system regulator, GABA (and its derived products like Phenibut) has been shown to have some predictive effects that make these chemicals useful for some kinds of treatments.
According to medical sources, this drug was originally a “cosmonaut’s medicine.” Reports cite the I. M. Herzen Leningrad Institute” in the former Soviet Union as one of the first places that Phenibut was synthesized. Russian space explorers took forms of this chemical to help them handle the demands of their jobs.
In modern medicine, Phenibut is shown to lower blood pressure and to have other related effects. There are some side effects, including effects of withdrawal, where blood pressure can spike, and anxiety and insomnia can result. Researchers are still looking at how drugs like Phenibut can contribute to better control of nervous system conditions.
Doctors sometimes use drugs like these to treat post-traumatic stress disorder in military workers and other patients. This drug is also something that doctors can prescribe for those with specific kinds of anxiety, including social anxiety. It can even help with other conditions, like stuttering.
In forums related to the above conditions and the use of pharmacology, individuals are trying to educate the public on potential side effects of the drug. It is important for patients to understand the risks and benefits before embarking on treatment with Phenibut or a related drug. Consumer advocates point out that not all popular uses of these kinds of drugs are specifically FDA approved and that more attention to clinical trials may be necessary.
Government medical information sources provide more information on the pharmacology of Phenibut. Information about this drug has also made its way to the fitness community. Some apparently feel that Phenibut can be useful for athletes because of its relaxing properties. Bodybuilding forums include comments on the drug by individual users, including those who buy it over the counter. Although similar drugs can be bought over the counter, because of reported side effects, individuals should always seek medical consultation before medicating with it.
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![Phenibut has been used to treat insomnia.]()
By: stefanolunardiPhenibut has been used to treat insomnia. -
![Phenibut, a nootropic drug, is sometimes used to treat anxiety.]()
By: David StuartPhenibut, a nootropic drug, is sometimes used to treat anxiety. -
![Due to its side effects, phenibut should not be taken without first consulting with a doctor.]()
By: Tyler OlsonDue to its side effects, phenibut should not be taken without first consulting with a doctor. -
![People who have generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) may benefit from taking Phenibut.]()
By: nadezhda1906People who have generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) may benefit from taking Phenibut. -
![Like Phenibut, exercise can help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety disorders.]()
By: Ana Blazic PavlovicLike Phenibut, exercise can help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety disorders.
Discussion Comments
@dolphins (and others): I've been using Phenibut daily for many months (almost a year), ranging from 2 grams to 3 grams (never more than 3 grams in a day). Currently, I have no fault whatsoever with how this works.
As a clinically depressed person (for years), this supplement has single-handedly improved my mood, cured my insomnia, helped increase my appetite, sorted out my bowel movements, improved my focus, made my relive things in my previous years that made me happy -- and actually enjoy them again. I generally feel very 'switched on' now, rather than just dull and disinterested in things. I tried various depression stuff from the doctor over the past few years, and all didn't work to the point of I got sick and tired of taking them.
@Dophins: You are absolutely correct about the "sexual enhancement" with this supplement. Orgasms take over your body, big time with it -- that is, so long as you are at your optimal dose. I can't describe the feeling, but its nothing like normal.
Taking it before drinking alcohol, in my opinion, exacerbates the effects of alcohol, but in a way that does not make you sick or appear absolutely stoned. The major thing with alcohol however combined with this, is that it can tend to encourage you to drink more, thus, the hangover the day after is absurd. For all you heavy drinkers out there, I've sometimes physically felt my liver inflamed by using this with alcohol. So my advice is, don't use with alcohol. But then again, it's silly to use anything with alcohol.
I can't fault it so far. I've nothing bad to say about this.
I'm scared my friend is hooked on this. People, it's very important to take days off with this!
I've been taking massive dosages of this for almost eight years now, and I've never measured with those little tiny spoons they give you, ever. I have always used teaspoons and tablespoons in the beginning.
It has changed my life for the worse here! I've tried to go cold turkey over five times during the years, only to go delusional and get so depressed I couldn't even leave my couch for days. Chat lines don't work for me because of the abusive dosages I have taken for all the years.
I've lost so many family members and friends, and many jobs because of what the powder has done to my brain chemistry for so long. I think I need to talk to a doctor about how to get off this permanently! Or to someone who has taken the massive dosages of all the years. If anyone could post here, it would be so appreciated. -- Seth
As a recovered alcoholic and hard drug addict, I refused to give into the candy store of prescription "remedies" for my panic, ptsd, and clinical depression. When I tried phenibut for the first time I was hooked, no pun intended. Phenibut is more dynamic than kava in terms of effects. It definitely does not get one "high" and cannot be abused unless you enjoy dry heaving all day and night. It is simply a safe and effective alternative to today's antidepressants and anxiolytics, which require daily dosing.
Physically and mentally, phenibut has helped to restore the equilibrium that has been missing in my life for decades. The side effects are so insignificant they are not worth mentioning. It is important to take breaks from it though, simply to maintain its maximum benefits. I recommend phenibut more than anything, except maybe yoga and exercise. Good luck.
Is anyone else familiar with this drug being used as a "sexual enhancement" product? Apparently, it's becoming quite popular in that regard.
This is the worst drug. It's almost a radiation effect to the blood like cancer drugs. It makes you feel like crap.
@stolaf23- Like all drugs, though, it doesn't always work. My sister was taking this for anxiety issues, and something about it actually made her feel even more anxious and have an even harder time sleeping. She's looking into other drugs now, but this one wasn't good for her body chemistry.
My uncle was taking this drug for awhile because of insomnia and other problems with getting enough sleep. He said it really helps. Eventually he even lowered his dosage and stopped taking it, so I would say it was great for his needs.
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