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MRM Relax-All with Phenibut was a dietary supplement used to promote sleep, help relax the muscles, decrease stress, and improve mood
The formula of this supplement was recently changed and now you can only buy an all-natural version of Relax-All sold without the ingredient Phenibut.
Phenibut is a synthetic derivative of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), one of the main inhibitory neurotransmitters in mammals. Phenibut is a GABA receptor agonist and CNS depressant.
In addition to Phenibut, the original MRM Relax-All also contained the amino acid L-Tryptophan, Jujube extract, Chamomile extract, Lemon balm extract, Valerian root, Rafuma leaf extract, Ashwagandha, Inositol and GABA. These ingredients are noted for their adaptogenic effects that may relieve stress and promote calmness.
Calcium and magnesium are also included, both of which are important as secondary neurotransmitters in the brain. They help to regulate neurotransmission and improve communication between neurons.
The new >MRM Relax-All formula contains all of the same ingredients except for Phenibut. Some users have reported that the product is less effective without this anti-anxiety ingredient. However, Phenibut does pose a high risk of side effects and is not appropriate for everyone to day.
Phenibut produces significant sedative effects and may interact with certain drugs or other supplements used in the treatment of anxiety. Long-term Phenibut use has been linked to tolerance, psychological dependence including withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of use.
According to the manufacturers, the new version of MRM Relax-All “Supports Relaxation & Calmness to Muscles” and “Aids in a Better Night’s Sleep.” Continue reading to learn about the effects of this supplement, the ingredients and potential side effect as well as user reviews of the new and old formulas.
Anxiety
Mood
Sleep & Insomnia- Powerful anxiolytic for stress reduction
- Stimulates GABA receptors & supports sleep
- Neuroprotective & supports cognitive function
MRM Relax-All with Phenibut
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The original version of MRM Relax-All contained Phenibut as its primary active ingredient. This is a synthetic compound that can stimulate GABA receptors in the brain, which are involved in regulating mood, anxiety and preventing over-stimulation of neural circuits.
Phenibut (Beta-phenyl-gamma-aminobutyric acid) was first synthesized from GABA in the 1960’s by Soviet scientists. Phenibut has the same molecular structure as GABA, however a phenyl ring with an extra carbon atom has been added.
When taken orally, GABA cannot cross over the barrier separating the bloodstream from the brain (blood-brain barrier) to any great extent. This means it has low oral bio-availability and has for a long time been presumed ineffective in the treatment of anxiety.
Because of Phenibut’s modified chemical structure, it can easily cross the blood-brain barrier and act in the brain similarly to endogenous GABA. This nootropic agent can activate metabotropic GABA-B receptors and at high doses can stimulate ionotropic GABA-A receptors.
In Russia, Phenibut is used widely as a pharmaceutical drug with “nootropic” effects. It was formerly a standard component of Soviet cosmonaut’s medical kits. It has demonstrated anxiolytic effects in both human and animal experimentation, but without causing the sedation associated with benzodiazepine drugs.
For this reason, Phenibut is sometimes used as a cognitive enhancer. In some research trials, it has produced a positive effect on memory and mental performance. It may promote increased focus by reducing distractions.
This GABAergic drug is prescribed in some Eastern European countries under the bran name Noofen for the treatment of anhedonia, anxiousness and neurotic disorders, tics and stuttering in children, motion sickness, Meniere’s disease, dizziness linked to dysfunction of the vestibular apparatus, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, headaches, irritation and more.
In animals, Phenibut has been observed to act as a sedative, reduce anxiety, and lower rates of respiration. It has also been shown to lower instances of respiratory arrest caused by excess Serotonin levels.
Phenibut has also been used recreatinally as an alternative to alcohol, since it activates GABA receptors in the brain much like alcohol. It is sometimes used during treatment of alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
In research studies, administering Phenibut to animals resulted in a decrease in drunken behaviors along with a decreased desire to continue consuming alcohol. Supplementation with Phenibut has helped to decrease weakness of muscle force associated with intoxication.
Relax-All has recently been reformulated to remove the Phenibut content. It now contains only natural ingredients and herbal supplements that are believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body.
- Powerful anxiolytic for stress reduction
- Improves sleep and may reduce insomnia
- Neuroprotective and cardioprotective effects
MRM Relax-All Ingredients
According to the manufacturers, “Relax-All is formulated with science-backed natural herbal extracts and nutritional compounds that allow the body to achieve a balance of muscle relaxation and mental tranquility.”
The new version of MRM’s Relax-All supplement has removed the dosage of Phenibut due to a risk of side effects linked to excess GABA activity.
MRM Relax-All now contains a number of natural ingredients that people have used to reduce stress, improve mood and promote restful sleep.
They refer to the proprietary blend of ingredients in this supplement as “NeuralCalm”, which is described as a “herbal and amino acid blend of highly concentrated extracts and neuro-peptides… [that] are all known for their relaxation properties and work synergistically to promote tranquility.”
These ingredients include:
1. Calcium:
There is 200 mg of calcium in MRM Relax-All with Phenibut. Calcium plays an important role in the communication of signals within neurons. Deficiencies in calcium may be associated with anxiety and depression symptoms.
Calcium also has benefits for bone strength, muscle development, dental health and more. It is implicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, heart disease, hypertension (high blood pressure) and for immune system functioning.
2. Magnesium:
MRM Relax-All contains 200 mg of magnesium per serving. Magnesium is involved in more than 300 separate biological and neurological actions in humans. Research shows that during periods of prolonged stress, the body uses magnesium at a faster rate. This can exacerbate feelings of stress and anxiousness.
Like calcium, magnesium is needed for efficient secondary neuronal signaling. It is also used to reverse osteoporosis, prevent cardiovascular disease, modulate hypertension, and treat type 2 diabetes, insomnia, depression and migraine headaches.
3. L-Tryptophan:
MRM Relax-All with Phenibut also contains 600 mg of L-Tryptophan in each serving. L-Tryptophan is an essential amino acid which is converted first to 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan), and then into Serotonin.
Serotonin is the “happiness hormone” that plays a role in regulating mood and feelings of contentedness. It is also used to make Melatonin, which is the main hormone responsible for regulating sleep and circadian cycles.
According to the Natural Medicines Database, L-Tryptophan is used for various conditions, including sleep apnea, insomnia, depression, anxiety, teeth grinding, Tourette’s syndrome, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
- Most effective supplements to improve mood
- Optimize levels of dopamine, serotonin and GABA
- Protect against stress and anxiety
4. Inositol:
Inositol is sometimes referred to as Vitamin B8 and is used by the human body for numerous purposes. Inositol also plays a role in regulating communication within the brain and may affect Serotonin levels. It has been observed to produce anxiolytic effects in animal studies.
5. Lemon Balm:
MRM Relax-All with Phenibut contains 100 mg of Lemon balm extract with each serving. Lemon balm is a calming herbal extract that is also known as Melissa Officinalis. This supplement increases the activation of GABA receptors in the brain.
It is used to induce calming effects, ease anxious thoughts, improve sleep patterns, decrease restlessness, and improve gastrointestinal disorders. Further, it used to for premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, headaches, Grave’s disease, sores, insect bites, tumors, and Alzheimer’s disease.
6. Jujube:
This product contains 400 mg of Jujubeseed extract, standardized to provide 2% jujubosides. The fruits and seeds of the Jujube plant have been used traditional in China and Korea to alleviate stress and as a natural sedative.
Research demonstrates a number of neuroprotective and nootropic benefits associated with this herb, as well as anti-inflammatory, and pro-immune properties.
7. Valerian:
Valerian root tea has long been used to improve mood, combat anxiousness and as a natural sleep aid for individuals suffering from insomnia. Valerian extract contains a number of active phytochemicals which are believed to stimulate GABA receptors.
Valeric acid is a GABA analogue and other sesquiterpenes found in this plant extract have been shown to stimulate GABA-A receptors. This is the same class of neuroreceptors on which benzodiazepine drugs act.
8. Ashwagandha:
Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb used in Traditional Indian medicine as an adaptogen. Adaptogens are a class of natural ingredients which are purported to improve the body’s resistance to stress and promote homeostasis.
Research shows that Ashwagandha extract can ease restlessness and anxiety as well as promote a stable mood and energy levels. It may have GABAergic effects and is also believed to reduce elevated levels of the stress hormone Cortisol. High cortisol levels are believed to be a marker of chronic stress and may contribute to weight gain as well as adrenal fatigue.
9. Chamomile:
This product contains Chamomile flower extract (Matricaria recutita) which has long been used in traditional medicine for its calming properties. It has a soothing effect, promotes mental relaxation and is purported to lift the mood.
It was traditionally used in Europe as a cure-all remedy due to its ability to promote digestive health and comfort. It is also taken at night to promote restful sleep.
10. Venetron (Rafuma Leaf Extract):
Venetron is a patented form of Rafuma leaf extract, which has been studied for its effects on anxious energy, relaxation and mental tranquility. According to the manufacturers, it promotes a positive outlook, improves sleep quality and helps to alleviate occasional stress.
Clinical data shows that increases serotonin levels, exhibits a synergistic effect with GABA and helps to reduce the secretion of chromogranin A, a stress marker. Venetron has long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine and has a good safety record.
11. Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (GABA):
Gamma Aminobutyric Acid is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain responsible for preventing anxiety and over-stimulation of neurons. This natural compound can also be used as an ingredient in dietary supplements, however there is an on-going debate about whether it actually works.
Research shows that GABA cannot cross the blood-brain barrier under normal circumstances. This means that when you take GABA orally as a supplement, the ingredient may not be able to enter your brain and bind to receptors that are responsible for regulating anxiety.
However, some researchers believe that GABA can still exert anxiolytic effects by interacting with receptors in the Gut-Brain Axis. These are nerve pathways that connect the intestinal tract to the brain.
More research is needed to determine whether GABA has anti-anxiety and sedative properties. While some users say they experience benefits when taking it for sleep and mood regulation, others report that it does not produce discernable effects.
This is why many people instead will take Phenibut or GABA analogues which can cross the blood-brain barrier and bind to GABA-B or GABA-A receptors in the brain. However, these analogues may present a higher risk of side effects, such as those seen with excess dosages of Phenibut powder.
User Reviews:
MRM Relax-All currently has a 4-star rating on iHerb.com based on 133 user reviews. It is important to note that these reviews contain a mix of people commenting on the original version of the product as well as on the new version, which was released in 2015.
There are mixed reviews on the new formulation of Relax-ALL. The old version with Phenibut received a number of positive reviews, although some users did complain of side effects.
A number of users report that the new phenibut-free version is less effective than the original. However, there are still people who say that it has benefits even without the primary active ingredient of Phenibut.
How to Take
The suggested use for this supplement is to take one capsule every three to four hours or as directed by a qualified healthcare provider. You should not take more than four capsules per day and should not take it for more than 5 consecutive days at a time.
If using MRM Relax-All as a sleep aid, it is recommended to take between two to four capsules 45-60 minutes before bedtime.
In addition to the active ingredients listed above, this product contains rice flour and the capsule is a vegetarian-friendly product made of plant cellulose. The manufacturer states that the product does not contain milk, egg, peanut, tree nut, fish, shellfish, soy, wheat, gluten or yeast.
Use of this supplement should be avoided when consuming alcohol or any medication that affects GABA receptors in the brain. Do not operate machinery or drive a motor vehicle when under the effects of this product.
According to the manufacturers, “This product contains a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.”
It should not be used by women who are pregnant or who are trying to become pregnant or women who are breastfeeding. Consult with your doctor before taking this supplement to determine whether it is appropriate for you.
Conclusions about MRM Relax-All with Phenibut
MRM Relax-All with Phenibut blended together some well-known ingredients which support mental and physical relaxation. Some of these ingredients have well-documented benefits for mood, anxiety, and relaxation.
However, this supplement was not appropriate for all individuals due to the presence of Phenibut. Phenibut can interact with certain drugs and may cause severe side effects or withdrawal if overused. This ingredient may also interact with alcohol.
The new version of the supplement has removed the phenibut content, which may eliminate some of the side effects experienced by some users. However, there are individuals who believe the updated formulation is less effective.
MRM Relax All sells for a regular price of $24.95 MSRP, but is currently on sale at iHerb for $13.17. One bottle contains 60 veggie capsules, providing 15 servings per bottle with a suggested serving size of 4 capsules.
There are other supplements that contain Phenibut, including Primaforce Phenibut and SNS Phenibut XT as well as the medication Noofen which is sold in parts of Europe.
Be sure that you understand the possible benefits and side effects before beginning to take MRM Relax-All or using Phenibut capsules. Speak to your doctor to decide if this supplement is appropriate for you.
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- MRM, Relax-All, 60 Veggie Caps. iHerb Customer Reviews.
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- Tiurenkov IN, Perfilova VN, Karamysheva VI, Popova TA, Lebedeva SA, Mikha?lova LI, Zhakupova GA. [Gravidaprotective action of phenibut in experimental pre-eclampsia]. Eksp Klin Farmakol. 2014;77(11):6-10.
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Article last updated on: April 5th, 2018 by Nootriment