Phenibut, also known as β-phenyl-Ὑ-aminobutyric acid, is a synthetic compound developed in the Soviet Union in the 1960s. It is a derivative of the neurotransmitter GABA and shares similarities in structure and function. Phenibut is primarily used as a tranquilizer and sleep aid, and in Russia it is also prescribed to treat depression. Off-label, it has been heralded as a nootropic, although its cognitive-enhancing properties are debatable.
Phenibut works by binding to GABA receptors in the brain. When phenibut binds to these receptors, it produces a calming and relaxing effect. Additionally, it crosses the blood-brain barrier more effectively than GABA, which can cause a flood of euphoria on the central nervous system.
It’s possible that phenibut could be an ingredient in a dietary supplement or other product. Other names the drug is known as include
Phenibut is commonly used in Eastern European countries for various medical conditions, however, the drug is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for medical use in the United States. That means that it is unscheduled and unregulated and can be marketed as a “dietary phenibut supplement.” It may also be marketed as a research chemical. In any case, while phenibut is relatively simple to acquire, it is not legal nor has it been approved to treat any type of physical or mental conditions in the United States.
Determining the appropriate dosage of phenibut can be challenging due to the lack of standardized guidelines. Phenibut can affect everyone differently, and gender, age, and metabolism can certainly be a factor. It’s impossible to determine the correct dosage since the drug can’t be taken under a physician’s guidance.
The drug is most commonly taken by mouth, either as phenibut powder or as a pill. The more water-soluble makeup of phenibut (phenibut HCL) can be taken sublingually (under the tongue) for a faster effect. It can also be used intravenously.
Higher doses can produce dangerous effects and can lead to accidental overdose. Symptoms of phenibut overdose may include
The onset and duration of phenibut effects can vary depending on factors such as dosage, individual metabolism, and route of administration. On average, it takes approximately two hours for phenibut to take effect when swallowed in capsule form or as a powder mixed with a liquid. If the substance is placed under the tongue, this can result in a faster onset, typically within 30 minutes. The peak effects of phenibut are typically experienced between four to six hours after ingestion.
Phenibut is typically available in two forms, and each form provides different types of effects. Phenibut HCL is the drug in its hydrochloride salt form, while phenibut FAA is a free amino acid. In layman’s terms, the difference between the forms affects the absorption rate of phenibut, which in turn affects its potency. When it comes to the mechanism of action (how the drug works) of phenibut HCL, this difference means it has a quicker onset, but in comparison, the effects of phenibut FAA can last much longer. Not knowing what form of phenibut you’re ingesting is dangerous because you are unsure of how the drug is going to affect you.
Phenibut, in general, varies in onset time, no matter which form is ingested. This is in part why taking a too-high dose or accidental overdose can easily happen – when an individual taking the drug doesn’t feel the onset of the effects in a reasonable period of time, they wrongly assume they took too small of a dose. This leads to taking more phenibut to get its desired effects, with the euphoria and adverse side effects setting in hours later – sometimes up to 8 to 12 hours.
Phenibut has the potential for addiction and dependence, especially with long-term and high-dose use. Tolerance can develop, leading to the need for higher doses to achieve the desired effects. When taken for the first time, phenibut can produce desired euphoric effects; however, even after one day’s use, an individual can develop a tolerance for the drug. Without taking a “tolerance break” in between doses, a user can quickly develop tolerance, needing higher doses immediately.
The timeline for phenibut withdrawal can vary, depending on factors such as the duration and dosage of use. Withdrawal symptoms typically start within a few hours to a few days after discontinuation and can last for weeks, or even months in severe cases. The intensity and duration of withdrawal symptoms can be influenced by individual factors and should be managed under medical supervision.
When individuals abruptly stop or significantly reduce their phenibut intake, withdrawal symptoms could include
Tapering off phenibut is the recommended approach to minimize withdrawal symptoms and safely discontinue its use. It involves gradually reducing the dosage over a period of time to allow the body to adjust. However, it is important to note that tapering off should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as they can provide personalized recommendations and support throughout the process.
On its own, common side effects of ingesting the drug may include
It is important to note that phenibut is a central nervous system depressant, and combining it with other depressants such as phenibut with alcohol or opioids can amplify overall effects and increase the risk of overdose. Phenibut should be used with caution, and it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before discontinuing its use.
If you or someone you know is struggling with phenibut addiction or dependence, seeking professional help is critical. Treatment options for phenibut addiction typically involve a combination of medical detoxification, therapy, and support services.
Because phenibut has been a silent, yet growing problem, there are no specific guidelines to adhere to when it comes to phenibut treatment. For those addicted to phenibut, it is important to seek the advice of a medical professional and not try to taper oneself.
While there are no set standards, addiction treatment professionals understand that phenibut works on the GABA receptors in the brain, similarly to benzodiazepines. Is phenibut a benzodiazepine? No, however the way that phenibut affects the GABA receptors is similar. A reputable and established treatment center can provide a detox plan that leads to a life free from phenibut.
For those who have experienced problems with the drug but don’t require detox, there are other ways to maintain a life free from phenibut. (needs citation) Online support groups can help, as well as in-person 12-step groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous. Additionally, there are other options, such as yoga and meditation, to help aid in recovery from stopping any substance or drug.
