Is Phenibut Legal in the US?

Phenibut is a nootropic that’s seen a significant rise in use in the United States in recent years. Its common use is primarily because it’s currently legal, yet it hasn’t been classified as a controlled substance by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so it’s readily available for purchase even without a prescription. 

Still, when using the smart drug, it’s important to only consume original and verified phenibut, such as the one sold by CosmicNootropic, or else you’re likely at risk for serious health issues related to abuse, dependence, addiction, and later, phenibut withdrawal.

What Is Phenibut?

Phenibut is a central nervous system depressant that induces a sedative effect in its users. It was originally synthesized in Russia in the 1960s, with one of its first uses being as a calming medication for astronauts to use in spacewalks. Nowadays, it’s used as a supplement to aid in issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, insomnia, and even alcoholism. Some people also enjoy phenibut recreationally.

Phenibut is similar to gabapentin, another GABA analog. But when comparing phenibut versus gabapentin, it’s important to note their differences. The former is classified as a nootropic, also known as a ‘smart drug’ or ‘cognitive enhancer,’ and it can be purchased even without a prescription. The latter is a controlled substance primarily marketed as an anxiolytic and requires a prescription before use.

Phenibut is usually consumed orally, either as a pill, powder, or liquid solution. The substance is also sometimes found in some dietary supplements.

How Does Phenibut Work?

Phenibut works similarly to gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter that produces a sedative effect on the body. But unlike GABA, phenibut penetrates the blood-brain barrier and binds to receptors in the brain, allowing it to relax its user and, at times, increase dopamine levels.

Benefits of Phenibut

Phenibut is considered an effective depressant that can help users combat medical issues such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), insomnia, phobia, and even alcoholism. It’s also known to be effective as a brain booster, helping enhance focus and brain performance. In low concentrations, phenibut has also been seen to increase dopamine levels.

Is Phenibut Legal in the US?

It’s legal to possess and sell phenibut in the United States. That said, the US FDA has yet to regulate it nor classify it as a controlled substance. It also hasn’t been approved for medical use and, thus, is not utilized in clinical settings. The smart drug is mostly sold online, and users often buy it as a nutritional supplement.

The Risks of Using Phenibut

While legal in the US, the unregulated and uncontrolled status of phenibut means that it could bring some dangers to users who could potentially abuse it. Let’s break down the risks that one should look out for when using phenibut. 

Side Effects

The effects of phenibut use can come with some adverse results, especially when the substance is taken in amounts beyond its recommended dosage. Side effects of phenibut use may include:

• Migraines
• Drowsiness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Poor balance and coordination
• Moodiness
• Fatigue
• Respiratory problems
• Unconsciousness
• High blood pressure
• Muscle spasms
• Delirium
• Seizures

Abuse

As with many other drugs, there have been cases of phenibut abuse. While it’s not necessarily an addictive substance, it does possess qualities that could potentially make it one.

Phenibut overdose, also known as ‘phenibut intoxication,’ can lead to changes in consciousness, respiratory depression, lethargy, severe agitation, low blood pressure, and, in very rare cases, even death. Anyone taking phenibut should always follow the recommended dosage.

Withdrawals

Taking phenibut regularly, even just for a week, can cause significant withdrawal symptoms once you suddenly reduce or stop using the drug. These include anxiety, hallucinations, sleeping problems, muscle pain, heart arrhythmia, tremors, etc. Those who use phenibut with other substances, particularly other depressants and opioids, are likely to experience more severe withdrawals.

Phenibut: Available From CosmicNootropic

If you are using phenibut, you must make sure that you purchase it safely from a reliable source that only sells original and verified medication, such as CosmicNootropic. At CosmicNootropic, you can buy high-quality phenibut at only $15 for twenty 250-milligram pills!

Legal Disclaimer

This product has not been approved by the US FDA. All statements on this page are for informational purposes only and have not been evaluated by the US FDA.

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. See more