Herb & supplement monograph

Phenibut Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

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Phenibut Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, Phenibut drug interactions carry a moderate risk of causing real problems for most people, mainly with medications that slow the brain and cause drowsiness. Every listed interaction is rated moderate, none major or minor, though the documentation comes mostly from case reports and theory rather than controlled human studies.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The combinations that deserve the most care involve CNS depressants, meaning medicines that cause sedation, because Phenibut has been linked in case reports to deep sedation and slowed breathing, especially at high doses, and adding another sedating drug could make that worse. Pregabalin (Lyrica) also stands out, since Phenibut is chemically similar to it and both act on the same calming receptors in the brain, so taking them together may pile on side effects like drowsiness.

What the rest of the list means

The long list of interacting medications largely reflects how many drugs have sedating effects, not hundreds of separate proven problems. Most of these concerns are theoretical or drawn from a handful of case reports, and none have been confirmed in well-controlled human studies. Still, the pattern points consistently in one direction: added sleepiness and slowed breathing are the effects to watch for.

Check your medications against Phenibut

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Phenibut interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Phenibut

248 medications have a known interaction with Phenibut, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

2,830 drugs
AcepromazineAtravet
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acepromazine interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, CodeineEsgic with Codeine, Fioricet w/ Codeine
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, CodeineBancap w/ Codeine
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine PhosphatePhrenilin #3
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, CodeineGesic C15, Gesic C30, Gesic C8, Lenoltec 1, Lenoltec 2, Lenoltec 3 +1 more
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, SalicylamideCodalan No.1, Codalan No.2, Codalan No.3
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, DihydrocodeineDHC Plus, Panlor DC, Panlor SS
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, OpiumHista-Derfule
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Opium interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorzoxazone, CodeineAcetazone Forte C8, Parafon Forte C8
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Chlorzoxazone, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, CodeineTylenol No.3, Tylenol w/ Codeine
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Codeine, DoxylamineMersyndol
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Codeine, Doxylamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Codeine, MethocarbamolAcetaminophen, Codeine, Methocarbamol, Robaxacet 8
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Codeine, Methocarbamol interaction
Acetaminophen, Dichloralantipyrine, IsomethepteneAmidrine, Midchlor, Migquin, Migratine
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Dichloralantipyrine, Isometheptene interaction
Acetaminophen, Dichloralphenazone, IsomethepteneMidrin
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Dichloralphenazone, Isometheptene interaction
Acetaminophen, Dichlorophenazone, IsometheptaneIsocom
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Dichlorophenazone, Isometheptane interaction
Acetaminophen, DiphenhydramineTylenol PM, Tylenol PM Ex Strength
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine interaction
Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Allergy, Cold Control, Contac Night Allergy Relief
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, HydrocodoneAnexsia, Anodynos DHC, Azdone, Co-Gesic, Doucet, Lorcet +9 more
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Hydrocodone interaction
Acetaminophen, MeperidineDemerol APAP
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Meperidine interaction
Acetaminophen, OxycodonePercocet, Roxicet, Tylox, Xartemis XR
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Oxycodone interaction
Acetaminophen, PentazocineTalacen
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Pentazocine interaction
Acetaminophen, PropoxypheneDarvocet-N 100, Darvocet-N 50, E-Lor, Wygesic
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetaminophen, Propoxyphene interaction
AcetazolamideAk-Zol, Diamox
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Acetazolamide interaction Acetazolamide drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AlfentanilAlfenta
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Alfentanil interaction
AlprazolamNiravam, Xanax
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Alprazolam interaction Alprazolam drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #2
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interaction
AminoglutethimideCytadren
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Aminoglutethimide interaction
Aminophylline, Amobarbital, EphedrineAmesec
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.

Read the full Phenibut + Aminophylline, Amobarbital, Ephedrine interaction
Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

  • Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
  • Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
  • Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
  • No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

  • Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
  • Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
  • Possible. Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
  • Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

  • Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
  • Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Phenibut combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
  • Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.
The big picture

The kinds of drugs Phenibut affects

Every type of medication (drug category) Phenibut is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

All 2 drug categories Phenibut interacts with
Cns DepressantsPregabalin (lyrica)
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression when taken with CNS depressants.
Phenibut has been associated with sedation and respiratory depression in several case reports, especially when taken at high doses.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Pregabalin (Lyrica)

Theoretically, phenibut might increase the risk for additive adverse effects, including sedation, when taken with pregabalin.
Phenibut is structurally related to pregabalin, and both chemicals act at GABA receptors in the brain. In a case report, a patient who had experienced tolerance to the effects of pregabalin for treatment of chronic neuropathic pain experienced a reduction in tolerance when phenibut was taken concurrently.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Phenibut: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

The bottom line

Phenibut is a synthetic, lab-made central nervous system depressant—not a natural herb—that some people use for anxiety and sleep, but it carries a serious risk of tolerance, dependence, and dangerous withdrawal. It is not an approved medication or dietary supplement in the United States, and we do not recommend its use. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist about safer, proven options for anxiety or sleep.

Phenibut
Part used
Synthetic compound (not a plant part)
Common forms
Powder, capsules, tablets
People commonly use it for
  • Anxiety and stress
  • Insomnia and sleep problems
  • Stress relief
  • Mood and focus
  • Reducing alcohol withdrawal symptoms (unproven)

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance
OverallBest avoided

Phenibut carries a high risk of dependence, dangerous withdrawal, and overdose, and is not approved as a supplement or drug in the U.S.

PregnancyInsufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using. A case of phenibut withdrawal in the neonate is reported after use of high doses (i.e. 5-12...

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingInsufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

Jump to a section

Overview

Phenibut is a man-made (synthetic) chemical, not an herb or plant. It was first developed in the Soviet Union and has been used there as a prescription medicine for anxiety, tension, and sleep problems. In some countries it is still sold as a pharmaceutical drug.

Phenibut is a close chemical relative of a brain chemical called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which helps calm the nervous system. It is structurally similar to certain prescription medicines such as gabapentin, pregabalin, and baclofen.

In the United States and several other countries, phenibut is not approved as a medicine or as a dietary supplement. Despite this, it is sometimes sold online as a powder or capsule and marketed for anxiety, stress, sleep, and even "focus" or workouts. Because it is unregulated when sold this way, product quality and dosing can be unreliable.

How it works

Phenibut is built from the calming brain chemical GABA, with an extra part added to its structure that lets it cross from the bloodstream into the brain more easily. Once in the brain, it is thought to act on GABA receptors, which slow down nerve activity and produce a calming, sedating effect.

At higher amounts, phenibut may also affect other brain systems, including certain calcium channels (similar to how gabapentin and pregabalin work). These ideas are based largely on laboratory and animal research, so the exact way it works in people is not fully understood.

Because it slows down the central nervous system, phenibut can make you feel relaxed or sleepy—but it can also build tolerance quickly, meaning the body needs more to get the same effect over time.

Effectiveness

Does Phenibut work?

Evidence overview · 8 uses evaluated
8 Insufficient evidence
How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.
2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.
3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.
4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.
5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.
6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.
7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.

For Phenibut, current evidence isn’t strong enough to rate any specific use. The conditions it has been studied for are listed below.

Also studied for 8 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Alcohol use disorder
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral phenibut for alcohol use disorder, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of phenibut for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Anxiety
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral phenibut for anxiety, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of phenibut for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral phenibut for ADHD, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of phenibut for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Cognitive function
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral phenibut for improving cognitive function, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of phenibut for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Depression
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral phenibut for depression, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of phenibut for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Insomnia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral phenibut for insomnia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of phenibut for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral phenibut for PTSD, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of phenibut for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Restless legs syndrome (RLS)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral phenibut for RLS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of phenibut for this purpose.

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

Phenibut is not considered safe for general use. One of the biggest concerns is that regular use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction. Stopping suddenly after regular use can cause a severe withdrawal that may include intense anxiety, agitation, trouble sleeping, hallucinations, and in serious cases seizures. Some people have needed hospital treatment.

Taking too much can cause dangerous over-sedation, especially the kind that slows breathing. The risk is much higher when phenibut is combined with alcohol or other substances that calm the nervous system.

People with a history of substance use disorder, mental health conditions, or breathing problems should be especially cautious—and ideally avoid it. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid phenibut because there is no reliable safety information, and it is a central nervous system depressant that could affect a developing baby. It should not be given to children or teens.

If you are already taking phenibut regularly, do not stop abruptly. Talk to a healthcare provider about tapering safely.

Side effects

Common side effects can include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, headache, tiredness, and a "hungover" or foggy feeling, especially the day after use.

More serious effects can include strong sedation, trouble breathing, loss of consciousness, and dangerous drops in alertness—particularly with higher doses or when mixed with alcohol or other sedatives.

With repeated use, the most serious problems are dependence and withdrawal. Withdrawal can be severe and may involve rebound anxiety, insomnia, tremors, hallucinations, and seizures. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical care right away.

Phenibut: Reported Adverse Effects

Documented safety reports on Phenibut from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database, shown word-for-word from the licensed record.

Orally, phenibut is generally regarded as unsafe. Any benefits of therapy may not outweigh the risk of toxicity.

Most Common Adverse Effects:

Orally: Balance impairment, dizziness, drowsiness, lethargy, and nausea. Withdrawal symptoms, including agitation, anxiety, decreased appetite, depression, hallucinations, hypertension, insomnia, nausea, seizures, and tachycardia, can occur after 3 or more consecutive days of use.

Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):

Orally: Agitation, delirium, hallucinations, respiratory depression, sedation, coma, and death when used at high doses.

Reports by condition
Anxiety Psychiatric

Orally, phenibut has been associated with aggression, agitation, altered mental status, anxiety, sedation, hallucinations, insomnia, and coma in case reports and case series. Phenibut is often used concurrently with other addictive substances, including alcohol.

Observational research and case reports have found that the use of phenibut can lead to the rapid development of tolerance within 3 days, and that use for 3 or more consecutive days is associated with withdrawal symptoms including anxiety, depression, cognitive changes, insomnia, agitation, visual hallucinations, paranoid delusions, nausea, and seizures.

  1. Downes MA, Berling IL, Mostafa A, Grice J, Roberts MS, Isbister GK. Acute behavioural disturbance associated with phenibut purchased via an internet supplier. Clin Toxicol (Phila). 2015;53(7):636-8.
  2. O'Connell CW, Schneir AB, Hwang JQ, Cantrell FL. Phenibut, the appearance of another potentially dangerous product in the United States. Am J Med. 2014 Aug;127(8):e3-4.
  3. Owen DR, Wood DM, Archer JR, Dargan PI. Phenibut (4-amino-3-phenyl-butyric acid): Availability, prevalence of use, desired effects, and acute toxicity. Drug Alcohol Rev. 2016 Sep;35(5):591-6.
  4. Hardman MI, Sprung J, Weingarten TN. Acute phenibut withdrawal: A comprehensive literature review and illustrative case report. Bosn J Basic Med Sci. 2019;19(2):125-129.
  5. Ahuja T, Mgbako O, Katzman C, Grossman A. Phenibut (β-Phenyl-γ-aminobutyric Acid) dependence and management of withdrawal: Emerging nootropics of abuse. Case Rep Psychiatry. 2018;2018:9864285.
  6. Isoardi KZ, Kulawickrama S, Isbister GK. Severe phenibut poisoning: An adolescent case cluster. J Paediatr Child Health. 2020;56(2):330-331.
  7. McCabe DJ, Bangh SA, Arens AM, Cole JB. Phenibut exposures and clinical effects reported to a regional poison center. Am J Emerg Med. 2019;37(11):2066-2071.
  8. Acosta E, Munguti C. Acute Psychosis Associated with Phenibut Ingestion. Kans J Med 2021;14:308-309.
  9. VanDreese B, Holland A, Murray A. Chronic Phenibut Use: Symptoms, Severe Withdrawal, and Recovery. WMJ 2022;121(1):E1-E4.
  10. Martin R, Buffenstein I, Cho D, Kiyokawa M. Toxidrome of an Easily Obtainable Nootropic: A Case Report of Phenibut Intoxication and Withdrawal Delirium. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2023.
  11. Morris M, Espinosa J, Lucerna A, Lahr R. A case of phenibut withdrawal and treatment with baclofen. World J Emerg Med 2023;14(4):338-340.
  12. DiFiore E, Pittman J. A Case of Phenibut Withdrawal Management and Detoxification Using Baclofen in the Outpatient Setting. Case Rep Psychiatry 2024;2024:8824770.
  13. Zheng KH, Khan A, Espiridion ED. Phenibut addiction in a patient with substance use disorder. Cureus. 2019;11(7):e5230.
  14. Samokhvalov AV, Paton-Gay CL, Balchand K, Rehm J. Phenibut dependence. BMJ Case Rep. 2013 Feb 6;2013. Pii: bcr2012008381.
  15. Brunner E, Levy R. Case report of physiologic phenibut dependence treated with a phenobarbital taper in a patient being treated with buprenorphine. J Addict Med. 2017 May/Jun;11(3):239-40.
  16. Magsalin RM, Khan AY. Withdrawal symptoms after internet purchase of phenibut (beta-phenyl-gamma-aminobutyric acid HCl). J Clin Psychopharmacol. 2010 Oct;30(5):648-9.
  17. Rod W, Kudryk A, Brunetti L, Sun N, Nguyen M. Phenibut withdrawal management in the setting of concomitant kratom and alcohol dependence. Critical Care Med 2018;46(1):451.
  18. Joshi Y, Friend S, Jimenez B, Steiger L. Dissociative intoxication and prolonged withdrawal associated with phenibut: a case report. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2017;37(4):478-80.
  19. Tamarelli C, Hosanagar A. Phenibut use in a patient prescribed gabapentinoids (letter). Pain Med 2020; Aug 4:pnaa205. doi: 10.1093/pm/pnaa205.
  20. Esposito CM, Mandolini GM, Delvecchio G, Fiorentini A, Brambilla P. Psychomotor agitation non-responsive to treatment: a case report of phenibut withdrawal syndrome. Front Psychiatry 2021;12:688147.
Depression Pulmonary/Respiratory
Epilepsy Neurologic/CNS

Orally, phenibut use has been associated with a hangover effect, dizziness, balance impairment, and electric shock symptoms in the limbs. Use of higher doses, ranging from 3 grams daily for 4 days to 25 grams in a single dose, has been associated with altered mental status, diminished consciousness, and sedation. In one case report, a 25-year-old male experienced acute toxicity involving significant sedation and diminished consciousness that lasted for several hours after taking phenibut 1.5 grams twice daily for 4 days. A 20-year-old female was found in a state of confusion and decreased consciousness that lasted for 24 hours after ingestion of phenibut 25 grams in one day. A 38-year-old male experienced agitated delirium requiring intubation and sedation after consumption of alcohol, marijuana, and phenibut the prior evening. In another case, a 59-year-old female experienced withdrawal symptoms, including two tonic-clonic seizures, after discontinuing phenibut. After several years of regular phenibut use, a 29-year-old male began taking approximately 50 grams daily over 4 daily doses due to having developed tolerance. He was hospitalized with confusion, disorientation, agitation, delusions, progressive delirium, echolalia, perseverating, insomnia, horizontal nystagmus, diaphoresis, orofacial dyskinesias, encephalopathy and mydriasis.

  1. Owen DR, Wood DM, Archer JR, Dargan PI. Phenibut (4-amino-3-phenyl-butyric acid): Availability, prevalence of use, desired effects, and acute toxicity. Drug Alcohol Rev. 2016 Sep;35(5):591-6.
  2. Downes MA, Berling IL, Mostafa A, Grice J, Roberts MS, Isbister GK. Acute behavioural disturbance associated with phenibut purchased via an internet supplier. Clin Toxicol (Phila). 2015;53(7):636-8.
  3. O'Connell CW, Schneir AB, Hwang JQ, Cantrell FL. Phenibut, the appearance of another potentially dangerous product in the United States. Am J Med. 2014 Aug;127(8):e3-4.
  4. Sankary S, Canino P, Jackson J. Phenibut overdose. AM J Emerg Med. 2017 Mar;35(3):516.e1-516.e2.
  5. Martin R, Buffenstein I, Cho D, Kiyokawa M. Toxidrome of an Easily Obtainable Nootropic: A Case Report of Phenibut Intoxication and Withdrawal Delirium. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2023.
Hypertension Cardiovascular
Muscle breakdown Musculoskeletal
Nausea and vomiting Gastrointestinal
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

Adverse-effects data: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

Dosing

There is no established safe or standardized dose of phenibut for use as a supplement, and it is not approved as a medicine or supplement in the United States. Products sold online are unregulated, so the actual amount and purity can vary widely and be unpredictable.

Because of the real risk of dependence, dangerous withdrawal, and overdose, we do not provide dosing guidance and do not recommend using phenibut. If you are considering it for anxiety or sleep, please talk with a pharmacist or doctor about safer, proven options. If you already use it regularly, do not stop suddenly—get medical help to taper safely.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Phenibut & Pregnancy

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using. A case of phenibut withdrawal in the neonate is reported after use of high doses (i.e. 5-12 grams daily) for an unknown duration during pregnancy.

Phenibut & Breastfeeding

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 23 references that drive our Phenibut monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

  1. Downes MA, Berling IL, Mostafa A, Grice J, Roberts MS, Isbister GK. Acute behavioural disturbance associated with phenibut purchased via an internet supplier. Clin Toxicol (Phila). 2015;53(7):636-8. PubMed
  2. Samokhvalov AV, Paton-Gay CL, Balchand K, Rehm J. Phenibut dependence. BMJ Case Rep. 2013 Feb 6;2013. Pii: bcr2012008381.
  3. O'Connell CW, Schneir AB, Hwang JQ, Cantrell FL. Phenibut, the appearance of another potentially dangerous product in the United States. Am J Med. 2014 Aug;127(8):e3-4. PubMed
  4. Brunner E, Levy R. Case report of physiologic phenibut dependence treated with a phenobarbital taper in a patient being treated with buprenorphine. J Addict Med. 2017 May/Jun;11(3):239-40. PubMed
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Keep reading

This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Phenibut

28 brands in our database make a supplement containing Phenibut.

Product directory

Supplement products with Phenibut

41 products in our database contain Phenibut. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

Anti Anxiety & Vitality Formula Pink Lemonade by Chill6 Powder 256 Gram(s) · 9.03 Ounce(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Avatropin by Cellusyn Laboratories Capsule 120 Capsule(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Crash Blue Razz by PS ProSupps Powder 108 Gram(s) · 3.8 oz. Off market View ingredients & interactions Crash Fruit Punch by PS ProSupps Powder 117 Gram(s) · 4.1 oz. Off market View ingredients & interactions Healthy Sleep Ultra by BodyHealth Capsule 60 Capsule(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Healthy Sleep Ultra by BodyHealth Capsule 60 Capsule(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Hypnotic Dragon Berry by Chaotic-Labz Powder 150 Gram(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Max Zzz by DNA Anabolics Capsule 60 Capsule(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Max Zzz by DNA Anabolics Capsule 60 Capsule(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Phenibut by BIOVEA Softgel Capsule 90 Vegetarian Capsule(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Relax-ALL by MRM Capsule 60 Vegetarian Capsule(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Rested-AF Lemon Ginger by Steel Powder 330 Gram(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Sleep & GH Formula Peacekeeper Strawberry Kiwi by Warrior Labz Powder 150 Gram(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Somabien by NutriPharm Capsule 120 Capsule(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions SomnaMax by Nutripharm Capsule 120 Capsule(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Z Test Night-Time Anabolic Catalyst by PMD Platinum Capsule 90 Capsule(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Z Test: Night-Time Anabolic Catalyst by PMD Platinum Capsule 90 Capsule(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Phenibut: Common Questions

What is Phenibut used for, and does it work?
People use Phenibut for a range of reasons, but according to the Natural Medicines database the current clinical evidence is insufficient to confirm it works for the specific conditions it has been studied for. See the graded list on this page, and talk to your pharmacist or doctor before relying on it for any condition.
Does Phenibut interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 248 medications with a known interaction with Phenibut. Use the checker above to see how Phenibut interacts with a specific drug.
How are Phenibut interactions rated?
Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.
Is it safe to take Phenibut with my medications?
It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.
Where does this Phenibut interaction information come from?
Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.
Is Phenibut a natural herb or supplement?
No. Phenibut is a synthetic (man-made) chemical, not a plant or herb. In some countries it is a prescription drug, but in the U.S. it is not approved as a medicine or a dietary supplement.
Is Phenibut safe to take for anxiety or sleep?
We do not consider it safe for general use. It can cause dependence, severe withdrawal, and dangerous over-sedation, and there is little reliable evidence that it works. Safer, proven options are available—talk to a doctor or pharmacist.
Can Phenibut be addictive?
Yes. Regular use can lead to tolerance and dependence quite quickly. Stopping suddenly after regular use can cause a serious withdrawal that may include severe anxiety, hallucinations, and even seizures.
Can I take Phenibut while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. There is no reliable safety data, and because it is a central nervous system depressant it should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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