Kratom and Phenibut: A Concise Review for Psychiatric Trainees

Nootropics are psychoactive substances that are widely accessible to purchase in the United States. Two such substances, kratom, a naturally derived nootropic, and phenibut, a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogue, are psychoactive substances that have neuropsychiatric effects mimicking those of prescribed medications. They are marketed as supplements and perceived by some consumers as an attractive alternative to prescribed psychiatric medications. They are also used recreationally, which has raised concerns about them as emerging drugs of abuse. Psychiatric trainees should be aware of the potential of use by their patients, as well as the effects of toxicity and withdrawal. This article provides a concise review for psychiatric trainees of existing literature regarding kratom and phenibut.