Drug and Alcohol
Phenibut: Uses, Effects, Risks, and Legal Status
Phenibut is a synthetic compound used to treat anxiety and insomnia in Russia, but banned in the U.S. due to its addictive potential and severe side effects.
Phenibut is a synthetic compound that mimics the brain chemical GABA, which is supposed to calm the nervous system. Developed in Russia in the 1960s, it’s used there to treat anxiety and insomnia. However, phenibut can be addictive and cause withdrawal symptoms, leading to its ban in many countries, including the United States, where it’s not approved for medical use and is prohibited in dietary supplements.
Despite its calming effects, phenibut’s potential for abuse and severe side effects make it a substance to approach with caution. We’ll guide you through its uses, side effects, and the risks associated with its use, as well as the reasons for its ban in the U.S.
What Is Phenibut?
Phenibut is a man-made substance that mimics the brain chemical GABA, which helps calm the nervous system. It was created in Russia during the 1960s and is used there to treat conditions like anxiety and insomnia. Phenibut works by depressing the central nervous system, which can make you feel more relaxed. However, it can also be addictive and cause withdrawal symptoms, which is why it’s not approved for medical use in many countries.
Is Phenibut Banned In the U.S.?
In the U.S., phenibut isn’t approved for medical use and is banned from being included in dietary supplements. While you can legally buy, sell, and possess it, the FDA has warned against using it because of the risks, such as addiction and severe side effects. It’s not regulated as a medicine, so its safety and effectiveness are uncertain.
Where Is Phenibut Legal?
Phenibut is legally used for medical purposes in Russia and some Eastern European countries, where it’s prescribed for anxiety and sleep issues. In contrast, it’s not approved for medical use in the U.S. and many other countries. Some places, like Australia, have classified it as a controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and addiction.
Phenibut Brand Names
Anvifen
Fenibut
Noofen
Fenigam
Phenigam
Phenybut
Phenygam
What Is Phenibut Used For?
In Russia and nearby countries, phenibut is mainly used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. It calms the central nervous system, helping to reduce anxiety and improve sleep. Despite its benefits, phenibut can cause serious side effects and addiction, which is why its use is restricted in many parts of the world.
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Phenibut Side Effects
Phenibut can cause a range of side effects, both in the short and long term. Short-term effects often include drowsiness, dizziness, and nausea, while long-term use can lead to more serious issues like dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and cognitive impairments. Many of these consequences of use are the reason why it’s banned in the United States.
Short-Term Effects
Drowsiness
Dizziness
Nausea
Headache
Fatigue
Irritability
Long-Term Effects
Dependence
Withdrawal symptoms
Cognitive impairments
Mood swings
Tolerance buildup
Potential liver damage
How Long Does Phenibut Take to Kick In?
Phenibut typically starts to take effect within 1 to 2 hours after ingestion. Some users might notice its calming effects sooner, especially if taken on an empty stomach, while others might take a bit longer to feel the full impact. The peak effects are usually felt around 4 to 6 hours after taking it.
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How Long Do the Effects of Phenibut Last?
The effects of phenibut can last anywhere from 15 to 24 hours, depending on the dosage and individual factors like metabolism and tolerance. After the initial peak, the effects gradually taper off, but some users report feeling a lingering sense of calm and relaxation into the next day.
Is Phenibut Addictive?
Yes, phenibut can be addictive, especially with regular use. It can lead to tolerance, meaning higher doses are needed to achieve the same effects, and dependence, where users feel they can’t function normally without it. Withdrawal symptoms can be severe, making it important to use phenibut cautiously and under medical supervision if possible.
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Phenibut Withdrawal Symptoms
Dependence on phenibut can develop with regular use, leading to withdrawal symptoms when stopping. Withdrawal can be both physically and psychologically challenging, making it important to approach discontinuation carefully. Here’s a comprehensive list of symptoms:
Tremors
Muscle cramps
Sweating
Nausea
Vomiting
Headaches
Severe anxiety
Panic attacks
Depression
Insomnia
Hallucinations
Severe Reactions to Phenibut
Phenibut can cause several dangerous reactions, especially when taken in high doses or combined with other substances. Some of the most severe reactions include respiratory depression, which can make breathing difficult, and loss of consciousness.
Other serious effects are extreme drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired motor skills, which can increase the risk of accidents. In extreme cases, phenibut overdose can lead to coma or death. If you’re located in a region where phenibut is legal, it’s important to use it cautiously, and be aware of these potential risks.
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Closing Thoughts on Phenibut
Phenibut is a powerful substance with significant risks. While it can provide relief from anxiety and insomnia, its potential for addiction and severe side effects cannot be ignored.
If you live in a country where phenibut is legal, it’s essential to use it with caution and be fully aware of the dangers, and always consider consulting a healthcare professional before using such substances to ensure your safety and well-being.
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Written by
Content Writer
Reviewed by
Chief Clinical Officer
Drug and Alcohol
October 11, 2024
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Phenibut mimics the brain chemical GABA, helping to calm the nervous system and is used to treat anxiety and insomnia in some countries.
No, phenibut is not FDA-approved and is banned from being included in dietary supplements in the U.S.
Yes, phenibut can be purchased online, but its legality varies by country. In the U.S., it’s not approved for medical use and is banned in dietary supplements, but it can still be bought and sold legally.
The risks of taking phenibut include dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and severe side effects like respiratory depression and loss of consciousness. Long-term use can lead to cognitive impairments and potential liver damage.
Phenibut should be taken with caution and ideally under medical supervision. Dosages can vary, but it’s important to start with a low dose to assess tolerance. Taking it on an empty stomach can speed up its effects.
Yes, phenibut is sometimes used to treat insomnia due to its calming effects on the central nervous system. However, its potential for addiction and severe side effects makes it a risky option for sleep disorders.
If you experience phenibut withdrawal, it’s important to seek medical help. Withdrawal symptoms can be severe and may require professional treatment to manage safely.
Phenibut is not considered safe for long-term use due to the risk of dependence, tolerance, and severe side effects. Long-term use can lead to significant health issues, including cognitive impairments and potential liver damage.