Phenibut has been around for decades now, but only in recent years has it become internationally known as a potential treatment for anxiety. Initially developed for Russian cosmonauts, Phenibut has found favor among athletes, students, and high-performing professionals looking for a chance to settle their minds or improve their quality of sleep.
There is plenty of scientific and anecdotal evidence to suggest that Phenibut can yield positive effects, but what about potential side effects? Before taking any kind of new supplement, it’s critical to have a clear sense of both potential positives and risks. It’s equally critical to choose a manufacturer known for high standards of purity and quality, for example, you can buy Phenibut here, from Paradigm Peptides.
What Does the Research Say About Phenibut’s Side Effects?
It’s important to note that many studies have confirmed Phenibut to be a positive and effective way to address anxiety. For example, one widely-cited study confirms that Phenibut can be a potent way to mediate the effects of tension, anxiety, fear, even insomnia.
There is little doubt that Phenibut can be helpful when administered in therapeutic doses. As with any supplement, though, there may potentially be adverse effects when the drug is used at the incorrect dosage. Here is some of the clinical data regarding Phenibut and its possible ill effects.
- In one of the most concerning studies, researchers note that the previous five years have seen a possible uptick in the number of local poison center calls related to Phenibut. However, it is critical to note that these incidents are linked with significantly higher dosages than those recommended, not with careful, controlled, and therapeutic administration.
- Other studies note that the combination of Phenibut with prescription drugs can lead to serious concerns, including the risk of psychosis and other cognitive disorders. As such, it’s crucial to check with a physician before using Phenibut, ensuring there are no unwanted drug interactions to worry about. Again, this is true for any new medication or supplement, and is not a risk that is unique to Phenibut.
- Still other studies indicate that, as with other drugs, Phenibut has a potential for addiction and abuse. Those who abuse Phenibut may experience symptoms of withdrawal when ceasing the use of the supplement.
- Researchers note that while Phenibut withdrawal is not especially common, users who do experience withdrawal may experience heightened anxiety, insomnia, and other concerns.
- There is also evidence to indicate that Phenibut dependence and Phenibut withdrawal symptoms are exacerbated when there is alcohol involved.Phenibut use is not recommended for those who have existing substance use disorders.
Is Phenibut Safe?
While these risk factors are worth keeping in mind, it’s also important to note that Phenibut can be administered in a safe and thoughtful way, allowing users to enjoy anti-anxiety benefits without a significant risk of negative effects due to too high of a dose.
For example, one noteworthy study indicates that, when taken in controlled and therapeutic doses, Phenibut is quite safe, with the risk of Phenibut abuse fairly minor. Additional studies note that Phenibut has been widely-used to relieve anxiety among Russians for quite some time now, and that physical dependence and other side effects have been very limited.
In other words, it’s more than possible to use Phenibut in a wise and effective way. Some general recommendations include:
- Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement
- Use Phenibut in controlled, therapeutic doses, as recommended by your medical provider.
- Avoid using Phenibut if you are taking other drugs or medications that may interact.
- Avoid using Phenibut if you already struggle with substance abuse or alcohol withdrawal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the positive effects of Phenibut?
Phenibut can potentially ease anxiety, improve the quality of sleep, and even improve cognitive function. It is also used to address many conditions related to stress, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Why is Phenibut banned in the US?
Phenibut is not currently approved by the FDA, but it is perfectly legal to buy and use the product.
Is Phenibut good for the brain?
Phenibut can reduce the excitability of nervous cells, potentially yielding anti-anxiety effects.
References
Lapin, I. (2006). Phenibut (β‐Phenyl‐GABA): A Tranquilizer and Nootropic Drug. Cns Drug Reviews, 7, 471-481. https://doi.org/10.1111/J.1527-3458.2001.TB00211.X.
McCabe, D., Bangh, S., Arens, A., & Cole, J. (2019). Phenibut exposures and clinical effects reported to a regional poison center.. The American journal of emergency medicine. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajem.2019.02.044.
Acosta, E., & Munguti, C. (2021). Acute Psychosis Associated With Phenibut Ingestion. Kansas Journal of Medicine. https://doi.org/10.17161/kjm.vol14.15550.
Cohen, P., Ellison, R., Travis, J., Gaufberg, S., & Gerona, R. (2021). Quantity of phenibut in dietary supplements before and after FDA warnings. Clinical Toxicology, 60, 486 – 488. https://doi.org/10.1080/15563650.2021.1973020.
Esposito, C., Mandolini, G., Delvecchio, G., Fiorentini, A., & Brambilla, P. (2021). Psychomotor Agitation Non-responsive to Treatment: A Case Report of Phenibut Withdrawal Syndrome. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2021.688147.
Zheng, K., Khan, A., & Espiridion, E. (2019). Phenibut Addiction in a Patient with Substance Use Disorder. Cureus, 11. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.5230.
Kupats, E., Vrublevska, J., Zvejniece, B., Vavers, E., Stelfa, G., Zvejniece, L., & Dambrova, M. (2020). Safety and Tolerability of the Anxiolytic and Nootropic Drug Phenibut: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials and Case Reports. Pharmacopsychiatry, 53, 201 – 208. https://doi.org/10.1055/a-1151-5017.