Beta-phenyl-gamma-aminobutyric acid, or better known as
Phenibut or less commonly Fenibut or Phenybut, is a neuropsychotropic drug, derived from the neurotransmitter
GABA that is capable of passing the blood brain barrier. In 1960, Phenibut was discovered in Russia and in the end has been used there since for a wide range of physical problems including anxiety and insomnia. Phenibut is often used by bodybuilders and fitness minded people to reduce fatigue, and cited as a nootropic (that is, "smart drug") for its ability to improve neurological functions.
The name
Phenibut, along with many of the other names for the compound, comes directly from the chemical name for the compound, beta-phenyl-gamma-aminobutyric acid.
Chemically, Phenibut is similar to baclofen and phenylethylamine, and predictably behaves similar to these compounds. Phenibut is a
GABA(B) receptor agonist, with slight activity at GABA(A) receptors. When coadministered with phenylethylamine, Phenibut antagonizes its effects, which can include hyperthermia, promotion of seizure activity, and promotion of anxiety.
