The learning effect of phenibut, a beta-phenyl derivative of the inhibitory neuromediator GABA, used in a subcutaneous does of 40 mg/kg 2 hours before each experiment, was studied in rabbits. The injection of phenibut was shown to enhance not only the inhibitory, but also exciatory components of cerebral neuronal responses to all applied stimuli. The findings support the concept that the GABAergic neuromediator system is involved in the elaboration of internal inhibition and explain the sense of intracerebral processes that ensure both the sedative properties of phenibut and its ability to improve patients’ systemic tone and health status when brain dysfunction are treated.
Vestn Ross Akad Med Nauk. 2005; (2):35-40.