Phenibut (β-Phenyl-GABA): A Tranquilizer and Nootropic Drug (technical)

[Chip (OP)]

very thorough study - if anyone is interested in Phenibut then this is the stuff to read.

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1527-3458.2001.tb00211.x/pdf

ABSTRACT

Phenibut (â-phenyl-ã-aminobutyric acid HCl) is a neuropsychotropic drug that was discovered
and introduced into clinical practice in Russia in the 1960s. It has anxiolytic and
nootropic (cognition enhancing) effects. It acts as a GABA-mimetic, primarily at GABAB
and, to some extent, at GABAA receptors. It also stimulates dopamine receptors and antagonizes
â-phenethylamine (PEA), a putative endogenous anxiogenic. The psychopharmacological
activity of phenibut is similar to that of baclofen, a p-Cl-derivative of phenibut.
This article reviews the structure-activity relationship of phenibut and its derivatives. Emphasis
is placed on the importance of the position of the phenyl ring, the role of the carboxyl
group, and the activity of optical isomers. Comparison of phenibut with piracetam
and diazepam reveals similarities and differences in their pharmacological and clinical effects.
Phenibut is widely used in Russia to relieve tension, anxiety, and fear, to improve
sleep in psychosomatic or neurotic patients; as well as a pre- or post-operative medication.
It is also used in the therapy of disorders characterized by asthenia and depression, as well
as in post-traumatic stress, stuttering and vestibular disorders.