Phenibut Versus Gaba
September 6, 2023
Nootropics, also known as ‘smart drugs,’ are a new breed of supplements that have been making waves in the US. Among these is phenibut, like CosmicNootropic phenibut, a drug that acts as a depressant for the central nervous system (CNS).
Many people use phenibut for sleep, insomnia, anxiety, fear, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It’s often compared to gabapentinoids, another GABA-receptor agonist, but the two are distinct and can elicit different effects on their users.
What Is Phenibut?
Phenibut is a synthetic analog of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid and helps induce calmness by binding to γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain, raising GABA levels which, in turn, produces a calming effect, sort of like a sedative.
This is why it’s typically used for treating neuropsychiatric diseases, such as depression, insomnia, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It’s also known to effectively stimulate the brain’s dopamine receptors, inducing an equally euphoric effect that can improve one’s mood, energy, and cognitive function.
Is phenibut a benzodiazepine? No, it’s not–phenibut is not classified under this type of drug. Instead, it’s considered a natural and safer alternative to the likes of Valium and Xanax.
What Is Gaba?
Gabapentinoids, or gaba for short, are a class of drugs that act as antiepileptic agents used to combat neuropathic issues. Clinically used gaba (gabapentin, pregabalin, and microgabalin) is used for treating epilepsy, postherpetic neuralgia, and neuropathic pain. Off-label uses also include the treatment of insomnia, migraines, panic disorders, manias, and withdrawals, among others.
Is Gaba the Same as Phenibut?
Both phenibut and gaba are similar in purpose, but they have key differences that have people choosing one over the other. Here’s a quick look at what makes them distinct:
Function
While phenibut is a GABA analog, it has the unique ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier thanks to the phenyl ring attached to the structure of the supplement. This allows it to work more effectively than gaba in inhibiting neural activity in the brain and spinal cord.
While conclusions are split, many researchers believe that phenibut is more effective in its sedative effects than gaba, which is why people who are experiencing neuropathic pain or would like to feel calmer or at peace lean more towards using the former.
Dosage
It’s recommended to take phenibut in smaller doses than you would gaba as it’s more potent. You can feel its side effects with even a tiny amount of just 200 to 300 milligrams a day.
It’s important to note that, as with any other drug, overuse of either can lead to abuse and addiction, which could lead to serious side effects or withdrawals.
Availability
Unlike gaba, phenibut is more widely available in the US, primarily because there has been more research on it here; it’s also the cheaper option between the two. Phenibut has become extremely popular in the country in the past decade, and you can buy it online, even without a prescription.
Phenibut Available From CosmicNootropic
When choosing between phenibut and gaba, the former often reigns supreme, especially because it’s much more accessible to those that may need to experience its effects. You can get phenibut from CosmicNootropic, a reliable nootropics supplier that has been providing supplements and pharmaceutical products since 2015. Add CosmicNootropic phenibut to your cart today!
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