5 Effective Nootropics That Are Similar to Phenibut

Updated November 5, 2024 by | Reviewed by William Gallagher, MNeuroSci
(Estimated reading time: 3 minutes)

Are you looking for the best nootropics that are similar to phenibut?

If so, then read on.

I’ve put together a list of 5 effective nootropics that are similar to phenibut and how they can help you achieve your goals.

You might be surprised by some of these alternatives!

Phenibut is an incredible supplement for improving mood, focus, and motivation but it does have its drawbacks.

It’s not legal in many countries or states because it has been shown to cause dependence when used long-term.

That’s why I've decided to compile this list of alternatives.

These supplements will give you all the same benefits as phenibut while being completely safe and legal in most places around the world.

So if you want a safer alternative with just as much potential benefit, keep reading!

5 Natural Alternatives to Phenibut

If you’re like me, you want to avoid using phenibut as much as possible.

It’s not legal in many countries because it has been shown to cause dependence when used long-term and can potentially be addictive.

5. L-theanine

The first on my list of alternatives is L-theanine.

L-theanine is a natural amino acid found in green tea and black teas that have been shown to reduce stress, improve mood and enhance cognition.

It's known for its ability to promote alpha brain waves which increase focus and concentration without causing overstimulation or restlessness like caffeine can sometimes do.

In fact, L-theanine is commonly stacked with caffeine for a more productive and focused energy boost!

L-Theanine Dosage Guidelines:

100 - 200 mg once or twice per day. Start off with the lowest dosage to assess your tolerance of this amino acid before increasing dosage size.

4. Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa monnieri is another natural supplement that has many benefits in terms of improving mood, focus and memory.

It’s one of my favorite nootropics because it really works to improve cognition without causing jitters or nervousness like other stimulants might do.

The active ingredient in bacopa monnieri is bacoside A which has been shown to protect brain cells from damage, improve memory recall and enhance mental clarity.

This makes it the perfect supplement for anyone who struggles with anxiety or stress in their life because it can help you stay calm even when faced with stressful situations.

Bacopa Dosage Guidelines:

300 mg once or twice per day.

3. Magnesium Glycinate

Magnesium glycinate is an excellent nootropic for anxiety, stress and insomnia.

It's one of my favorite forms of magnesium because it’s the easiest to absorb into your body which makes it perfect for people who are sensitive or deficient in this essential mineral.

Research has shown that high levels of magnesium glycinate can improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety and stress while also having a positive effect on cognition by enhancing memory.

Magnesium Dosage Guidelines:

200 - 500 mg once or twice per day. It's best to take magnesium glycinate before bedtime because it has relaxing effects which can help you get better rest at night.

2. Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola rosea is another powerful nootropic for improving mood, focus and energy levels.

It's actually one of my favorite supplements because it works really well to boost mental performance without causing any jitters or anxiety like other stimulants might do.

Research has shown that rhodiola can help lower cortisol levels in the body which gives it a powerful effect on mood, focus and cognition.

It’s also known for its ability to help increase energy without causing nervousness or overstimulation like other stimulants might do.

Rhodiola Dosage Guidelines:

100 - 200 mg once or twice per day. Start off with the lowest dosage to assess your tolerance before increasing dosage size.

1. Magnesium L-Threonate

Finally, my absolute favorite nootropic for anxiety is magnesium threonate.

I’ve been using this supplement on and off now for over a year and I absolutely love it because of its ability to improve cognition without causing any jitters or nervousness like other stimulants might do.

Magnesium threonate is an advanced form of magnesium that can penetrate the blood-brain barrier better than other forms.

This makes it perfect for improving cognition because your brain cells will absorb more nutrients and be able to function at a higher level.

Magnesium Dosage Guidelines:

200 - 300 mg once or twice per day.