Curious about phenibut HCL?
Then keep reading. In this detailed phenibut HCL review, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this fascinating compound, including:
What is phenibut HCL?
Benefits of phenibut HCL
Where you can buy phenibut HCL powder online
We’ll also compare phenibut HCL to FAA, outline how to research phenibut safely, and link to a heap of research studies for further reading.
If you are a new researcher conducting experiments with phenibut HCL, take your time reading through everything. There is a bit to cover, but learning the basics about phenibut HCL is definitely worth your time.
For the experienced, qualified phenibut HCL researchers — you are sure to learn something new in this detailed science based review.
Now, let’s get started!
What is Phenibut HCL?
Phenibut is a compound that was developed in The Soviet Union and bought into clinical practice in the 1960′s [1].
It is a prescribed medication in Russia and several CIS countries. It goes by the brand names Noofen, Anvifen, and Fenibut [2].
In contrast, Phenibut HCL is a psychoactive compound that is structurally similar to GABA, the neurotransmitter associated with feelings of calm and relaxation.
It binds to GABA receptors in a similar manner to baclofen, pregabalin, and gabapentin [3], medications commonly prescribed in the United States. These compounds, along with phenibut HCL, belong to a class of medications known as gabapentinoids [4].
Gabapentinoids are increasingly being used in clinical practice for the treatment of anxiety [5] and pain management [6].
Interestingly, phenibut HCL can also modulate the transmission of dopamine, the primary neurotransmitter involved in reward and motivation [2].
In medical settings, phenibut HCL is prescribed for a range of problems [7], including:
Anxiety
Alcoholism
Depression
PTSD
Insomnia
Pain
In countries where phenibut HCL is not an approved medication, it is available as a research chemical or reference material. In these instances, it is labeled as “strictly for research purposes only.”
Reports have emerged that phenibut HCL is a potential recreational substance of abuse [8].
Benefits of Phenibut HCL
Phenibut HCL is of great interest to researchers because of its unique profile of effects in experiments.
According to the literature, phenibut HCL acts as both a tranquilizer (sedative) and a nootropic [1].
This is almost unheard of in psychopharmacology, where commonly prescribed medications for anxiety and stress impair cognition [9] and can cause low energy and depressed mood [10] (amongst other problematic side effects).
A list of just some of the benefits reported in phenibut HCL clinical trials include:
Reduction in anxiety [1]
Effective treatment for insomnia [2]
Can replace alcohol in social situations
Improves mood and energy levels, particularly at lower doses [11] (effective in chronic fatigue)
Assists in the management of stress [2]
Boosts focus and concentration [12] (including for ADHD)
Medical applications for the treatment of PTSD, depression, alcoholism, stuttering, and tics [7]
Relief from pain, particularly nerve pain (applies to all gabapentinoids) [6]
Phenibut HCL researchers can target specific benefits by modifying the dose administered to research participants. Lower doses favor focus and cognition enhancing effects, medium doses tend to promote anxiety relief, and high doses are best for achieving relaxation and sedation [13].
Another research benefit of phenibut HCL is its long half-life and duration of effects [1]. This means that for test subjects, effects will build up at a comfortable slow pace, then last throughout the day and even into the next.
Phenibut HCL vs. Phenibut FAA
Researchers looking to purchase phenibut will notice two forms available:
Phenibut HCl
Phenibut FAA
Neither form is “better,” but they do have slightly different properties…
Understanding the pros and cons of phenibut HCL vs. phenibut FAA can help qualified researchers decide which form is most suitable for their experiments.
Phenibut HCL | Overview
Phenibut HCL is an acidic salt that is very stable. It readily dissolves in water and is the most common form of phenibut available.
Researchers need to dissolve a standard dose of phenibut HCL in approximately 1 cup of liquid before it is administered to test subjects. This reduces the acidity of the compound to a safe level.
Test subjects describe the taste of phenibut HCL as “tangy” and “slightly bitter”. This taste can be masked in a flavored beverage if required.
Some researchers and test participants prefer phenibut FAA because it is less acidic, can be administered sublingually (under the tongue), and doses are 15 - 20% lower than phenibut HCL.
Phenibut FAA | Overview
Phenibut FAA is a powdery substance that does not dissolve in water. Being a salt, Phenibut HCL has a more crystalline appearance, while phenibut FAA is a chalky texture.
The differences between phenibut HCL vs phenibut FAA are worth being aware of, but researchers should remember that both compounds are metabolized into the same substance when administered to test subjects. In most cases, they will have identical effects.
How to Research Phenibut HCL Safely
Because phenibut HCL is a prescribed medication in some countries, researchers have access to solid science based safety guidelines for experiments.
In general, the main concerns with phenibut HCL research are dependence [14], overdose [15], and withdrawal [16].
By carefully following the guidelines below regarding dose and frequency of administration, researchers can greatly reduce the risk of any of these problems being experienced by test participants.
Dose
One of the most important safety factors in phenibut HCL research is dose.
Phenibut HCL doses administered to test subjects should be limited to no more than 300mg in initial experiments [7].
Gradual increases in dosages can be tested, but these need to be done in a carefully controlled manner. Many researchers find that 300 - 500mg is sufficient to achieve the desired results in test subjects even in long-term experiments.
An individual dose administered to a test subject should not exceed 1000mg (1 gram).
It can be tempting for researchers to increase phenibut HCL dosage to achieve more significant effects in test subjects. This can work in the short term, but research participants will soon develop a tolerance to the compound [17].
Tolerance results in a challenging situation, where ever-increasing doses of phenibut HCL are required to achieve similar effects in a test subject.
Frequency of Administration
Another essential aspect of safe phenibut HCL research is the frequency of administration.
Because it has a long half-life, phenibut HCL should not be administered to test subjects more than three times per day [7]. This will ensure that the compound does not build up to unsafe levels in research participants.
It is recommended for researchers to only administer phenibut HCL to test subjects on 1—3 days per week.
Spacing phenibut HCL doses throughout the week is a good strategy. Having breaks in between testing days will further enhance safety and reduce the risk of negative side effects..
Finally, the total amount of phenibut HCL administered to a test subject over the course of a week should not exceed 4000mg (4 grams).
If this upper limit is reached, research should be reduced the following week.
When conducting research with any psychoactive compound, “tolerance breaks”, or “medication holidays” are important [18].
In the case of phenibut hcl research, this typically involves having a period of 1—4 weeks several times per year where no phenibut HCL is administered to research participants.
Additional Things To Avoid
Phenibut HCL can affect coordination and alertness in higher doses. Therefore, test subjects should be advised to avoid driving, operating machinery, or participating in any other potentially dangerous behavior if they feel impaired during research [7].
Phenibut HCL can increase the sedating and intoxicating effects of pain medications and alcohol [2]. Test subjects should be directed to abstain from alcohol and other drugs during testing.
Researchers also need to screen potential participants for pre-existing health conditions before conducting experiments.
Participants with conditions that affect balance, blood pressure, or coordination may not be suitable for testing.
Warning and Precautions
By following the guidelines above, phenibut HCL researchers will dramatically reduce the likelihood of adverse events in test subjects.
Even so, there are several potential side effects that qualified researchers need to be aware of.
1. Dependence
Phenibut HCL, like any psychoactive substance, carries a risk of dependence for test subjects [14].
Signs that dependence is occurring include a research participant having difficulty going without phenibut HCL research, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms between experiments.
Regular medication holidays, limiting testing to recommended doses, and abiding by frequency of use guidelines greatly reduces the risk of dependence in test subjects.
2. Withdrawal
The scientific literature comprehensively outlines the withdrawal syndrome of phenibut HCL [16].
Withdrawal may occur when a test subject that is dependent on phenibut HCL is administered a smaller than usual dose, or is excluded from research completely.
Symptoms of withdrawal typically resemble the opposite of the benefits of phenibut HCL and are reported to be incredibly unpleasant. Withdrawal symptoms can include [19]:
Irritability
Anxiety
Low mood
Muscle pain and aches
Nausea
Challenges with focus
Insomnia
3. Overdose
It is possible to administer an overdose of phenibut HCL to a test participant.
In general, any individual dose administered that is over 1000mg (1 gram) can be considered an overdose. This is particularly true with less experienced phenibut HCL research subjects.
Symptoms of overdose can include slurred speech, loss of coordination, shallow breathing, nausea and vomiting, and loss of consciousness [20].
Phenibut is a central nervous system depressant in high doses [21], so precautions similar to those for overdose of sedatives and opioids are warranted.
4. Managing Dependence and Withdrawal
By following safe testing protocols, qualified researchers can aim to avoid dependence and withdrawal in test subjects completely.
Where problems do arise, it may be necessary to develop a tapering plan for a research participant [22].
Tapering is complicated and may require the input of a medical professional.
It involves making an accurate assessment of the regular amounts of phenibut HCL being administered to a study participant, then gradually adjusting this downwards to minimize symptoms of withdrawal.
Phenibut HCL Side Effects
Research shows that only about 6% of people prescribed phenibut experience side effects [2].
The side effects most commonly noted include [7]:
Dizziness
Poor coordination
Nausea
Drowsiness
Itching
Headache
Side effects can generally be managed by reducing the regular dose of phenibut HCL administered to a test participant. They can also resolve and reduce in severity over time.
Phenibut HCL Dosage Guide and Calculator
Formulas do exist for dosing phenibut HCL by bodyweight of test subjects. But the safest option is to stick to the doses used in medical practice in countries where it is prescribed.
This allows some flexibility in dosing, while ensuring that amounts administered to test subjects falls within safe medical guidelines.
Below is a dosage guide for phenibut HCL based on medical literature [2] and prescription guidelines [7]:
Low: 250—300mg
Medium: 500—750mg
High: 1000mg
Qualified researchers that wish to convert a phenibut HCL dose to an equivalent phenibut FAA amount can use the following formula:
Phenibut HCL Dose x 0.8 = Equivalent Dose Of Phenibut FAA
Using this formula, a study using 500mg of phenibut HCL could be converted to use FAA with the following calculation:
500 (Phenibut HCL) x 0.8 = 400 (Equivalent Dose Of Phenibut FAA in Milligrams)
Phenibut HCL and phenibut FAA are both available from online vendors in powder form and capsules.
Capsules are generally more convenient and portable, but researchers with appropriate lab-grade scales and measuring equipment may opt for powder.
Powder generally works out cheaper and can be used in more precise doses than capsules.
Where to Buy Phenibut HCL Online?
Aside from following safety guidelines, choosing a reliable vendor is one of the most important aspects of phenibut HCL research.
There are some risks with ordering phenibut HCL (and other research chemicals) from unreliable vendors. Some of the common problems can include:
Customs issues due to poor packaging and labeling
Receiving a contaminated or impure product
Mistakes with dosing due to defective capsules or unclear instructions
Mix-ups with the form of phenibut provided
No product arriving at all!
By using our top two phenibut HCL vendors, qualified researchers can have peace of mind that these issues will be avoided.
Read on to find out more…
1. Science.bio
Science.Bio is our #1 choice for a high-quality online phenibut HCL vendor.
They are the leading manufacturer for high-quality phenibut HCL, nootropics, cognitive enhancers, and other research chemicals.
The thing that separates Science.bio from the competition is their commitment to quality and purity in ALL of their products. They understand the needs of dedicated researchers, and this is reflected in their manufacturing process.
They use transparent and lot tracking, third-party testing protocols, and more to ensure their products are as pure as possible.
Other benefits of Science.bio include:
Product Selection: Science.bio offers an extremely wide selection of research chemicals, including phenibut hcl, nootropics, cognitive enhancers, and more.
Competitive Prices: Known for having some of the best prices in the business, Science.bio is guaranteed to offer prices that will match the needs of any budget.
Shipping Policies: Science.bio offers incredible shipping rates, with free shipping on all orders over $100.
Superior customer service: When it comes to exceptional customer service, it doesn’t get any better than Science.bio. They offer truly world-class customer service, and are available to answer any questions that you may have.
If you’re looking for a world-class phenibut HCL vendor that you can trust, look no further than Science.bio. They have established themselves as the leader in their industry, thanks to their commitment to producing high-quality products that produce results.
But don’t just take our word for it - here is what recent customers have to say about Science.bio:
“It was a pleasure to work with these guys. My order was shipped the day after I bought it. Also, a big plus is the ability to pay for the order using the Ethereum cryptocurrency. The quality of the chemicals is excellent. I will definitely order again from this company!” - Eugene L.
Overall, we strongly recommend Science.bio for anyone looking to use phenibut HCL in their upcoming research studies.
2. Liftmode
Liftmode is an excellent alternative to Science.bio for anyone looking for a high-quality phenibut HCL vendor.
Liftmode has been in operation since 2010, and has steadily grown into one of the most trusted online vendors for phenibut HCL, research chemicals, and a range of other physical and cognitive health products.
They have an outstanding reputation in the nootropics community.
This reputation was hard earned, as it came through years of tireless dedication to supplying researchers with high quality, rigorously tested products to support total body, mood, and brain health.
Liftmode is known for their commitment to educating the research community about new compounds that show promise to improve health and wellness. They have a wealth of science based information freely available on their blog, that even experienced researchers are sure to learn something from.
Liftmode was one of the pioneers among research chemical vendors in undertaking rigorous testing of all their products to ensure quality and purity.
All Liftmode products are tested at their in-house facility, with COA’s (Certificates of Analysis) posted on their website.
When a researcher orders phenibut HCL from Liftmode, they can be certain that pure, high quality phenibut HCL is what they will get.
Liftmode stock phenibut HCL in 3 forms of crystalline powder, plus pre-filled 300mg capsules. They also carry phenibut FAA powder.
The dedicated customer service team at Liftmode will promptly answer any queries, with international shipping offered throughout the world.
3. Pure Rawz
Any researcher looking for phenibut HCL can’t go wrong with Pure Rawz.
Pure Rawz is a highly reputable online vendor that offers a vast selection of high-quality Phenibut HCL and other research chemicals. Researchers worldwide can rely on their broad range of nootropics, SARMs, and other compounds to support their studies.
One remarkable aspect of Pure Rawz is their commitment to manufacturing the highest quality products possible. They conduct rigorous lab testing on all their products, providing researchers with reliable and accurate information to ensure successful studies.
Pure Rawz also offers international shipping, which means researchers can purchase their high-quality phenibut HCL and nootropics products from anywhere in the world. They also have a price match policy, ensuring that researchers get the best value possible when purchasing from them.
In conclusion, researchers looking for a reliable source of high-quality Phenibut HCL and other research chemicals can confidently trust Pure Rawz. Their comprehensive product range, commitment to quality, lab testing results, and international shipping options make them a top choice for researchers worldwide.
Researchers also need to screen potential participants for pre-existing health conditions before conducting experiments.
Phenibut HCL and f-phenibut are two closely related nootropics that have similar effects in the human body.
Of course, there are also some key differences between these two products that researchers MUST be aware of before using them in their research studies…
What Is Phenibut HCL?
Phenibut HCL is a powerful nootropic and mood enhancer that has been successfully studied for decades by researchers. This research chemical has the well documented ability to minimize feelings of anxiety and improve overall mood in research subjects.
Additional facts about phenibut HCL that researchers must be aware of:
Short Half-Life: The effects of phenibut HCL last for approximately 5 hours in the body. This means it has shorter lasting effects than f-phenibut and other nootropics.
Lower Potency: Phenibut HCL is know for being less potent than f-phenibut. It requires higher doses and carries lower overall risk for overdose or side effects.
Established Safety Profile: Phenibut HCL has been studied by researchers for decades, and the latest scientific studies show that it is a very safe research chemical with minimal side effects.
What Is F-Phenibut?
F-Phenibut is a derivative of the more heavily studied phenibut HCL.
Research shows f-phenibut to have more powerful effects in the body, and require lower overall doses to achieve optimal effects. Research also shows that f-phenibut may offer longer-lasting effects overall.
Key facts about f-phenibut include:
Longer Half-Life: Research shows f-phenibut remains active in the body for about 8 hours, which is approximately 3 hours longer than the sustained effects of phenibut HCL.
Greater Potency: F-Phenibut is significantly more potent than phenibut HCL, and should be taken at significantly smaller doses of approximately 100 - 200mg.
Less Established Safety Profile: The effects and side effects of F-Phenibut have not been studied as extensively as that of phenibut HCL. For this reason, researchers are encouraged to exercise increased caution while studying the effects of f-phenibut.
Phenibut HCL and F-Phenibut | Which Is Best?
Phenibut HCL and f-phenibut offer relatively similar benefits for research subjects in terms of reducing feelings of anxiety and improving mood.
However, they also have key differences that make them more suitable for specific research studies.
Potency: Phenibut HCL is less potent overall than f-phenibut, meaning it requires a higher overall dose to achieve the maximum amount of benefits. It also offers reduced risk of side effects, which can be important in some research settings.
Duration of Action: Phenibut HCL lasts for approximately 5 hours, which is in contrast to f-phenibut which can last for up to 8 hours in the body.
Safety Profile: Phenibut HCL has been studied for decades and has significantly more research backing its safety and efficacy vs the less tested f-phenibut.
In conclusion, both Phenibut HCL and f-phenibut offer similar benefits for researchers.
However, Phenibut HCL is the clear #1 choice for researchers looking to study the effects of a safe research chemical with minimal risk of negative side effects.
Phenibut HCL Review | Overall
Phenibut HCL has been around for a while.
It has a long history of medical use in Russia and several CIS countries.
Phenibut HCL has some very interesting and unique properties. Most notably, its dual actions as a compound that can treat anxiety and promote relaxation, while simultaneously improving cognition [2].
Some of the newer forms of phenibut have caught the attention of researchers in recent years, perhaps taking the limelight from phenibut HCL.
Phenibut FAA and f-phenibut have benefits for certain types of research, but it is worth remembering that phenibut HCL is the longest studied of these compounds. As a result, it has a far greater base of research supporting its efficacy and safety.
For most researchers, phenibut HCL is the best starting point for experiments.
As long as guidelines around safe research are followed, it is likely to produce the desired outcomes in a wide variety of studies, in many different research settings.
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Morris, Michael; Espinosa, James; Lahr, Robin; and Lucerna, Alan, “An Analysis of Phenibut (ß -phenyl-yaminobutyric acid) Withdrawal” (2021). Stratford Campus Research Day. 9.
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Vorob’eva OV, Rusaya VV. Éffektivnost’ i bezopasnost’ preparata noofen v terapii sindroma khronicheskoĭ ustalosti u bol’nykh s tserebrovaskuliarnoĭ nedostatochnost’iu [Efficacy and safety of noophen in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome in patients with cerebrovascular insufficiency]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 2017;117(11):31-36. Russian. doi: 10.17116/jnevro201711711131-36. PMID: 29265084.
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Ahuja, T., Mgbako, O., Katzman, C., & Grossman, A. (2018). Phenibut (β-Phenyl-γ-aminobutyric Acid) Dependence and Management of Withdrawal: Emerging Nootropics of Abuse. Case reports in psychiatry, 2018, 9864285. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/9864285
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