§ 01 Overview
Overview
GABA-B and alpha-2-delta ligand used for anxiety and sleep. Significant dependence and withdrawal risk.
Used medically in Russia. Not approved in the US; linked to severe dependence and withdrawal.
§ 02 Mechanism
Mechanism of action
Phenibut crosses the blood-brain barrier and activates GABA-B receptors; it also inhibits alpha-2-delta subunits of voltage-gated calcium channels (similar to gabapentin/pregabalin).
- 01Anxiolytic and sleep-promoting effects
- 02Social disinhibition
§ 03 Dosing
Dosing protocol
Standard Protocol
- Dose Range
- 250 – 1000 mg (varies widely)
- Route
- Oral
- Frequency
- Intermittent; tolerance develops rapidly
§ 04 Evidence
Evidence & research
Used medically in Russia. Not approved in the US; linked to severe dependence and withdrawal.
FDA Status
Not approved. FDA has issued warnings about phenibut in supplements.
§ 06 News
In the news
5 articles from the last 12 months · updates hourly
Outpatient Phenibut Taper Supported by Baclofen and Gabapentin - Cureus
Outpatient Phenibut Taper Supported by Baclofen and Gabapentin Cureus
USFDA warns consumers to avoid Addall XR Shot and Addall XL capsules - Sault Michigan News
USFDA warns consumers to avoid Addall XR Shot and Addall XL capsules Sault Michigan News
Possible Biotransformation Pathways of GABA Derivatives Mefebut and Phenibut - Springer Nature Link
Possible Biotransformation Pathways of GABA Derivatives Mefebut and Phenibut Springer Nature Link
Traffic Safety Initiatives: Legal but Lethal - Police Chief Magazine
Traffic Safety Initiatives: Legal but Lethal Police Chief Magazine
'Very potent' supplement once given to Soviet cosmonauts can curb anxiety - New York Post
'Very potent' supplement once given to Soviet cosmonauts can curb anxiety New York Post
§ 07 Sourcing
Sourcing & supply
Regulatory status
Authentic supply from international sources
Authentic product originates from specific international manufacturers, most commonly Russian pharmaceutical facilities for Khavinson bioregulators. RUO vendors selling the same name are typically Chinese-synthesized research vials, not the original product.
International · 2
Cosmic Nootropic
The most credible Russian / Khavinson source for US buyers. Sources authentic bioregulators through 'Peptides Company' (ex-NPCRIZ).
Rupharma
12+ year Russian pharmacy reseller. Reviews.io 4.84/5 (81+). Has a genuine US warehouse for common peptides.
Listings are informational, not endorsement. Verify credentials and flags against FDA and PCAB databases before purchasing. Full directory & how to verify →
§ 09 Safety
Safety & side effects
Side effects
- 01Dependence and severe withdrawal (seizures, psychosis reported)
- 02Sedation
- 03Headache
Contraindications
- 01History of substance use disorder
- 02Concomitant alcohol / benzodiazepines
§ 10 Questions
Phenibut FAQ
- What is Phenibut?
- GABA-B and alpha-2-delta ligand used for anxiety and sleep. Significant dependence and withdrawal risk. Phenibut crosses the blood-brain barrier and activates GABA-B receptors; it also inhibits alpha-2-delta subunits of voltage-gated calcium channels (similar to gabapentin/pregabalin).
- What is Phenibut used for?
- Reported uses include anxiolytic and sleep-promoting effects and social disinhibition. Evidence strength is rated Clinical — see the evidence section for detail.
- How is Phenibut dosed?
- Commonly referenced dosing is 250 – 1000 mg (varies widely), typically intermittent; tolerance develops rapidly, administered Oral. This is educational reference only; consult a licensed clinician before use.
- What are the side effects of Phenibut?
- Commonly reported side effects include dependence and severe withdrawal (seizures, psychosis reported), sedation, and headache. This list is not exhaustive.
- Is Phenibut legal?
- Authentic product originates from specific international manufacturers, most commonly Russian pharmaceutical facilities for Khavinson bioregulators. RUO vendors selling the same name are typically Chinese-synthesized research vials, not the original product. FDA status: Not approved. FDA has issued warnings about phenibut in supplements..