Phenibut (beta-phenyl- gamma-aminobutyric acid, also spelled fenibut, originally
known as phenigamma) is a derivative of the neurotransmitter GABA that crosses
the blood-brain barrier [1]. It was developed in Russia, and there it has
been used clinically since the 1960's for a range of purposes. Phenibut has
both nootropic and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties, and it is commonly
compared to diazepam (Valium), baclofen, and piracetam, and it has similarities
to and differences from all of these substances.
Structurally, phenibut is similar to GABA, baclofen (p-Cl-phenibut), and
beta-phenylethylamine (PEA). GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter
in the brain. The addition of the phenyl ring to GABA allows the compound
to more easily cross the blood-brain barrier, but also changes its activity
profile [1-2]. Baclofen is a drug commonly used in studies on GABA(B) receptors,
and also clinically used to treat severe spasticity of cerebral origin [3].
PEA is a naturally occuring biogenic amine which is similar in structure
to amphetamine, and like amphetamine, it is a stimulant that causes the release
of dopamine, and also promotes anxiety in high enough amounts.
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