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Noopept and Phenibut are nootropics that are purported to improve mood, combat anxiety, promote relaxation and support cognitive function.
Both have been used clinically to address symptoms of neurological disorders including cerebrovascular disorder, Alzheimer’s disease, senile dementia, as well as mood disorders.
In addition to their medical uses, Noopept and Phenibut are taken for their “off-label” benefits. User reviews and some scientific research points to positive effects for those dealing with lack of focus, anxiety, stress, or emotional mood swings.
Both Noopept and Phenibut are Russian-developed nootropics and most of the research available on these substances was conducted in Russia. While they have some similarities in terms of their range of uses, the effects and mechanisms involved are very different.
Phenibut is significantly more powerful as an anxiolytic agent than Noopept and poses a higher risk of side effects. Noopept exhibits more benefits for mental performance, memory, focus and awareness.
Some users elect to take a Noopept Phenibut Stack to experience the benefits of both of these substances in combination. Before using this nootropic stack, it is important to learn about the effects of these drugs, how they should be used responsibly and the dangers of overuse.
Mental Energy
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Noopept vs. Phenibut
Related Topics
- What is Noopept?
- User Reviews
- Reported Benefits
- How it Works
- Negative Side Effects
- Typical Experiences
- Recommended Dosage
- Best Way to Take
- Stacking with Choline
- Recommended Nootropic Stacks
- Purchasing Guide
- Bulk Noopept Powder
- Buy Noopept Capsules
- Is Noopept Legal?
- Comparison to Piracetam
- Comparison to Aniracetam
- Comparison to Oxiracetam
- Comparison to Pramiracetam
Comparisons between Noopept vs. Phenibut may help to clarify a number of questions consumers have when it comes to choosing one over the other.
Noopept and Phenibut are synthetic nootropics or “smart drugs” – an umbrella term defining substances that have the reputation of enhancing cognition, focus, memory, as well as motivation.
Studies regarding the efficacy of nootropics have been ongoing since the mid-1970s. Several of today’s popular nootropics, including Noopept and Phenibut, were developed in Russia as early as the mid-1960s.
Usage of nootropics in the United States has begun to gain wider acceptance, especially in regard to increased knowledge and research about them.
One area of ongoing study begun in the 1970s is the potential use of nootropics in the alleviation of symptoms of dementia and age-related memory loss. [1]
Individuals tend to use Noopept as a support for cognitive function, while Phenibut is commonly used as an anti-anxiety medication or a depressant for the central nervous system.
Testimonials and experience logs from users suggest that both have mood-lifting and calming properties, however Phenibut is significantly stronger than Noopept for the alleviation of anxiety and stress.
Noopept Overview
Noopept is the Russian brand name for a synthetic chemical (N-phenylacetyl-L-prolyglycine ethyl ester or Omberacetam) that has been studied for its capability to provide some protection to neurofunction and ameliorate cognitive impairments.
Noopept is defined as a “smart drug” that has garnered interest for its potential to stimulate certain receptors in the brain that are involved with cognition, memory, and focus. It appears to facilitate cholinergic neurotransmission, which plays a role in short-term memory, attention switching, impulse control and learning.
The actual mechanism of action of Noopept in this regard is not yet fully understood. Several potential mechanisms of action have been identified in animal studies.
Noopept is also believed to stimulate two primary “excitatory” neurotransmitter receptors and receptor pathways that facilitate thought processes, memory, and focus.
It appears to selectively increase activation of AMPA and NMDA receptors in the glutamate family. Glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain.
Ionotropic receptors such as AMPA and NMDA have the potential to turn on or turn off channels that facilitate neurotransmissions. Noopept is perceived to have the capability of opening these channels, stimulating greater communication between neurons or transmission of signals that mediate focus and thought processes. [3]
These glutamate receptors are also involved in Long-Term Potentiation, which is the mechanism involved in encoding memories in the brain for long-term storage.
Research also shows benefits for symptoms of anxiety, irritability, apathy and fatigue in patients with vascular cerebral damage or traumatic brain injury. One study found that Noopept enhanced mood, daytime wakefulness and sleep quality in patients diagnosed with organic brain disorders. [13]
Research in animal models also suggests benefits for depression. The mechanisms involved in Noopept’s anti-anxiety and anti-depression effects are not well understood. This nootropic has been shown to increase the frequency of Inhibitory Post-Synaptic Currents (IPSCs) in Hippocampal pyramidal cells.
User reviews often cite mood boosting effects from taking Noopept. Some users describe feeling “brighter”, clear-headed, more confident in social settings, less susceptible to irritation over minor hassles, and general positivity and well-being.
Not everyone experiences these effects and compared to Phenibut, the anxiolytic effects are much subtler.
- 1000x more potent than Piracetam
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Phenibut Overview
Phenibut has been utilized in clinical settings in Russia since the 1960s. It is widely prescribed for mood disorders and insomnia under the brand names Anvifen, Fenibut, and Noofen.
Phenibut has a long history of use in Russia and former Soviet countries like Ukraine and Latvia as an anti-anxiety formula that triggers a calming effect on users without the sedation commonly found in other modern anti-anxiety and antidepressant medications.
It has been used to enhance quality sleep in neurotic patients as well as those displaying psychosomatic fears and anxieties. Today, it’s commonly used as a treatment for the relief of symptoms of PTSD and for alcohol withdrawal syndrome. [7]
Phenibut has not been approved for used a medical drug in the United States, but is commonly taken off-label as a nootropic agent or for recreational purposes.
In studies, Phenibut shows the potential to ‘imitate’ GABA-like influences on GABA-B receptors, encouraging relief of anxiety. It has also been studied for its potential to stimulate dopamine receptors and its ability to antagonize beta-phenethylamine. [8]
The chemical structure of Phenibut is similar to that of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) – an inhibitory chemical in the brain. GABA is an amino acid that behaves as a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, required for regulating normal brain function.
GABA’s mechanism of action is to decrease the activity of neurons and prevent nerve cells from getting “overexcited”. It counteracts excitatory signals and reduces the rate of stimulation in neurons.
In simple terms, GABA reduces the number of stress or anxiety-causing “messages” the brain receives in response to internal and external stimulus.
Phenibut is a selective GABA receptor agonist, which means that it can bind to GABA-B receptors and promote the same response as the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid.
Because if it’s similar chemical structure to GABA, it can promote calming sensations. Phenibut is more powerful than taking a GABA supplement because it has a higher degree of bioavailability and can better cross the blood-brain barrier.
In animal studies, Phenibut has been shown to decrease anxiety. Modern human studies are lacking, but there is ample evidence from user reviews showing an anxiolytic effect of this substance.
Phenibut was originally considered to be a nootropic agent because it could calm the mind without causing excessive sedation and impairment cognitive abilities.
Some early studies conducted in Russia suggest benefits for mental function, but there is limited data available to evaluate its broader effects on memory, focus and cognition.
While a small number of users claim that this substance has nootropic effects of its own, most say that any cognitive benefits are linked to a reduction in anxiety. Noopept is a better choice for users who want to achieve cognitive enhancement.
Phenibut has a long history of clinical use, but can be dangerous if taken without appropriate medical supervision. Use of this substance at high dosages or taking it for long periods of time can result in serious side effects including overdose, withdrawal symptoms, a psychosis-like condition and may necessitate hospitalization.
Phenibut works on similar receptors in the brain as alcohol, benzodiazepines and baclofen. The same GABAergic side effects that are possible with these agents could occur if Phenibut is misused.
Anxiety
Mood
Sleep & Insomnia- Powerful anxiolytic for stress reduction
- Stimulates GABA receptors & supports sleep
- Neuroprotective & supports cognitive function
Comparing Noopept and Phenibut
When comparing Noopept and Phenibut, the differences between the two should be clear. They are two different substances, one intended for use as a stimulation for cognitive function, and the other for anti-anxiety.
Both are labelled as nootropics and they are described as having some similar properties for anxiety relief and mood enhancement. However, user experiences demonstrate a clear difference between the two.
Phenibut is a significantly more potent GABA agonist that produces an anxiolytic effect and can cause sedative-like effects.
Noopept may increase inhibitory nerve signals in certain parts of the brain, but it does not appear to bind to GABA receptors and it has some stimulant-like effects.
For off-label use, Phenibut produces a more powerful experience of relaxation, mental calm, and restfulness but also carries a heightened risk of dangerous side effects.
When comparing research into Noopept vs. Phenibut, there are studies that have looked at the neuroprotective properties of these substances for the treatment of cognitive dysfunction or degenerative brain disorders.
More research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of these drugs for dementia-related conditions, cerebral ischemia, Alzheimer’s disease and degenerative nerve damage in the brain.
A 2014 study on cellular models reported benefits of the neuroprotective effects of Noopept in its potential to inhibit oxidative damage and suppression of cellular death. [9]
As previously mentioned, tau and tau bundles have been linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Tau is a type of neuron protein linked to neuro fibers known as tangles in the brain of those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.
Scientific evidence has purported that disruption of tau functions and interactions can play a role in disruption in brain functions involved in dementia type disease processes. [10]
While human clinical trials, animal studies, and microbiological research are still exploring the exact cause of certain types of dementia, nootropics such as Noopept may prove beneficial in offering protection against toxicity as well as in decreasing tau phosphorylation. [11]
Because dementia patients, depending on severity and stage, often grow agitated, nervous, suspicious, and even paranoid, study of nootropics such as Phenibut may also prove beneficial in providing calming influences.
In animal studies, Phenibut (beta-phenyl-gamma-aminobutyric acid HCl) primarily acts as a GABA-mimetic. A mimetic is something that imitates something, meaning that it is able to imitate or mimic the effects of GABA in the brain.
Since the 1960s, Russian doctors have used Phenibut in clinical practices for its potential to influence GABA receptors. It is popular for the relief of anxiety, fear, as well as to improve sleep patterns in neurotic patients. In this way, Phenibut may act much like a tranquilizer to calm severely agitated patients.
Some studies have also established neuroprotective effects of R-Phenibut in experimental models of stroke un animals. But there is no evidence that Phenibut can cure these conditions.
Use of Phenibut or Noopept as a broad range treatment of Alzheimer’s symptoms and degenerative conditions have not been fully explored nor studied in large, controlled, clinical trials. Animal, laboratory and cell line experiments and studies continue.
There are no comparative studies available to evaluate the efficacy of Noopept vs. Phenibut as nootropic agents for cognitive enhancement.
- Powerful anxiolytic for stress reduction
- Improves sleep and may reduce insomnia
- Neuroprotective and cardioprotective effects
Noopept Phenibut Stack
A number of users on Reddit and Longecity report their experiences with taking a Noopept Phenibut Stack.
According to one review, “The Noopept Phenibut stack is an interesting one! This may actually be a highly effective stack for improving sociability, alertness, and mood.” [14]
Reviewers claim that the enhanced mental clarity and focus of Noopept pair well with the positive mood and pro-social effects of Phenibut. Noopept contributes to memory performance, cognition and alertness while Phenibut prevents the feeling of over-stimulation that can occur.
If taking these nootropics in a stack, it is recommended to start with lower dosages due to the potential for synergistic effects.
Dosage
Noopept supplements are available in a variety of milligram strengths and dosage recommendations will vary depending on product. Always take Noopept and other nootropics like Phenibut according to usage instructions.
In regard to safety issues, personal tolerance and sensitivity may influence the potential for side effects and adverse reactions.
Noopept is available as a tablet and is also sold in powdered form. Noopept capsules are available in 10 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg options. Serving size for the supplement regardless of milligram strength is typically one capsule daily.
Nasal sprays and sublingual use of the powder have also become popular options recently. Some users do not experience benefits when taking this nootropic orally, but find it to be effective if used sublingually or administered as a spray to the nosel.
Phenibut, due to its potency, as well as potential for dependency, is not recommended as a daily supplement. For most, taking Phenibut twice a week is adequate and prevents the potential of tolerance as well as possible withdrawal symptoms for those who use it more than recommended.
Dosage recommendations for Phenibut range 250 mg to 1000 mg of the supplement in capsules or powdered form on a daily basis, although some individuals may take as much as 3000 mg daily.
Use of higher dosages increases the risk of serious side effects. Long-term use could cause tolerance to develop and result in dependence or withdrawal symptoms.
Those new to use of Noopept as well as Phenibut should start with even lower dosages to gauge how the body reacts to it.
Consult with a doctor before taking these substances. Do not use Phenibut if you have a pre-existing medical condition without first checking with your doctor.
Combining Phenibut with other medications that affect GABA receptors could exacerbate side effects. Do not drink alcohol when taking this nootropic drug.
Note: The US Food and Drug Administration has deemed nootropics, at least currently, as unregulated supplements. Some claims regarding use of nootropics have not been fully researched and studied, nor approved by the FDA.
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Side Effects
In regard to safety considerations, Noopept does present with some side effects that can include but are not limited to:
- Headaches
- Change in appetite
- Potential irritability
- A sense of restlessness
- Brain fog
Noopept is generally well tolerated and most users do not experience serious side effects. If you do develop adverse effects, using a lower dosage or taking a choline supplement can mitigate these.
Learn about safe use of Noopept and potential side effects in this article.
A number of side effects are also associated with use of Phenibut, such as:
- Stomach cramps
- Dizziness
- Lethargy
- Potential dependence
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Serious adverse effects can occur when taking high dosages, especially if consuming this nootropic drug in combination with other substances.
A 2013 case study of possible dependents to Phenibut emphasizes the importance of caution with users. The case presented a patient self-medicating to treat insomnia, anxiety, and cravings for alcohol.
The individual developed tolerance to the point where he began to experience withdrawal symptoms within three to four hours of use. He was treated with baclofen as a substitution of Phenibut, and after approximately nine weeks was successfully tapered off. [12]
Learn more about the risks and side effects of Phenibut here as well as ways to reduce potential negative effects through responsible use.
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- C.D. Nicholson, Pharmacology of nootropics and metabolically active compounds in relation to their use in dementia. Psychopharmacology. (1990)
- Chen-YiWu et al, The Effects of Anti-Dementia and Nootropic Treatments on the Mortality of Patients with Dementia: A Population-Based Cohort Study in Taiwan. PLoS One. 2015; 10(6):e0130993.
- Firstoba Lulu et al, [Studying specific effects of nootropic drugs on glutamate receptors in the rat brain]. Eksp Klin Farmakol. 2011;74(1):6-10
- Brust P, Reversal of scopolamine-induced alterations of choline transport across the blood-brain barrier by the nootropics piracetam and pramiracetam. Arzneimittel-Forschung (1989)
- Dr. Karl Kruszelnicki, How does the blood-brain barrier work? ABC Science (2013)
- Rita U. Ostrvskaya et al, The nootropic and neuroprotective proline-containing dipeptide Noopept restores spatial memory and increases immunoreactivity to amyloid in an Alzheimer's disease model. Journal of Psychopharmacology (2007)
- a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1183076"1 target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Lapin I, Phenibut (beta-phenyl-GABA): a tranquilizer and nootropic drug. CNS Drug Rev. 2001 Winter;7(4):471-81.
- Ibid.
- Óstrovskaya RU et al, Neuroprotective effect of novel cognitive enhancer Noopept on AD-related cellular model involves the attenuation of apoptosis and tau hyperphosphorylation. J Biomed Sci. 2014 Aug 6;21:74.
- Johnson GV, Stoothoff WH, Tau phosphorylation in neuronal cell function and dysfunction. J Cell Sci. 2004 Nov 15;117(Pt 24):5721-9.
- Rita U Óstrovskaya et al, Neuroprotective effect of novel cognitive enhancer noopept on AD-related cellular model involves the attenuation of apoptosis and tau hyperphosphorylation. J Biomed Sci. 2014 Aug 6;21:74.
- Andriy Samokhvalov et al, Phenibut dependence. Case Report. BMJ Case Reports 2013
- Neznamov GG, Teleshova ES. Comparative studies of Noopept and piracetam in the treatment of patients with mild cognitive disorders in organic brain diseases of vascular and traumatic origin. Neurosci Behav Physiol. 2009 Mar;39(3):311-21. doi: 10.1007/s11055-009-9128-4.
- Our Top 5 Noopept Stacks - What To Stack It With And What To Expect? Liftmode.
Article last updated on: July 16th, 2018 by Nootriment