Brain Wiz

Upgraded Self (also known as Bulletproof) is known for their high-quality, well-sourced products to boost human performance. Not only are they responsible for Bulletproof Coffee trend (a mix of coffee, medium chain triglyceride oil, and grass-fed butter, which in conjunction can serve as their own nootropic), but Upgraded Self also produces a number of nootropics, including Unfair Advantage (check out our review here), Choline Force (check out our review here), and Glutathione Force. Today, we are reviewing one of their nootropics that also doubles as a sleep aid, GABAwave.

UPDATE: Currently, GABAwave is unavailable from the Bulletproof/Upgraded Self. Recently, we’ve seen many phenibut-containing supplements taken off the market. If you’re looking for a supplement to boost brainpower and focus, check out our other supplement reviews here.

The Ingredients

GABAWave comes in 4 mL single-use ampules. There are 15 ampules/servings per container.

Active Ingredients:

Phenyl-GABA (phenibut) – 600 mg This is GABAwave’s only active ingredient, and Bulletproof makes a special form which makes the phenibut molecules smaller and more easily absorbable (this is accomplished through the phospholipid listed under “Other Ingredients”). Phenibut is a chemical that emulates the brain chemical gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). It is a neuropsychotropic drug that functions as both a nootropic and as a tranquilizer by stimulating dopamine production. Dopamine plays a part in controlling flow of information in the brain while alleviating stress and anxiety.

Other Ingredients: Purified water, Oleic Acid (from olive oil), Glycerin, Phosphatidylcholine (Natural Phospholipid as an emulsifier), Inulin, Natural Flavors, Natural Caramel Color, Gum Acacia and Stevia.

Usage Guidelines

For Clear Focus all day and enhanced sleep all night: Take 1 serving in the first half of your day (can take before noon) on an empty stomach. Allow up to 36 hours between servings. Do not exceed 3 servings in a one week period. The way phenibut is processed by the body can result in no or opposite effects, so use caution when beginning use. GABAwave™ can increase the effects of tranquilizers, narcotics, and neuroleptics. We had several BrainWiz testers take 1 ampule every 48 hours for 6 days (not exceeding the 3/week recommendation of the manufacturer).

What Our Testers Say

“I’m generally a nervous flyer, so I decided to try GABAwave during my last transatlantic flight. It was one of the best travel days I’ve had in recent memory. Even when things were not going as expected, I was able to keep calm, and still sharp enough to make quick decisions working on the plane. It also helped me fall asleep quickly, mitigating jetlag. I will continue to take this, especially when I have to travel. The calm feeling was pretty great.”

“This helped me sleep well, something I don’t see with a lot of nootropics, as some give me jitters and keep me awake, and recover from a couple of back-to-back tough workouts. I also felt clear-headed and “ready” for anything when taking GABAwave.”

“I don’t mind the flavor of Bulletproof’s Unfair Advantage, but GABAwave took me by surprise. It is salty, bitter, and vicious; but it’s also so worth it. There was a simultaneous rush of calm and clarity, and it lasted two full days. I will be reaching for this supplement whenever I have a high-stress day or two coming on.”

“Despite tasting atrocious, GABAwave works! I felt calm even under a tremendous amount of stress, and I had some of the best nights’ sleep I can remember. I did have a[n alcoholic] drink while on GABAwave, and it hit me hard. I would suggest staying away from booze when on GABAwave.”

BrainWiz Tips

After comparing experiences and effectiveness, here are our best tips for getting the most out of GABAWave:

• GABAWave contains no caffeine, and it pairs well with your morning coffee (especially because it helps take the taste of GABAwave away).
• Our testers experienced no negative side effects from this supplement, though one did experience some dizziness when drinking alcohol the same day as taking GABAwave. But as with any supplement or nutritional regimen, you should talk to your doctor or medical professional before use. It is also important NOT to take more than three servings during a week.
• GABAWave should be taken before noon.
• We recommend trying it on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for sustained nootropic and sleep support through the week.
• If you’re using the supplement for the first time, start with less than a full ampule, and work your way up to a full ampule.
• Phenibut enhances the tranquilizing effects of alcohol and other drugs. We advise that you stay away from other tranquilizers when taking GABAWave.
• A good supplement to fight travel stress.

Supplement Summary 

GABAwave is a great caffeine-free nootropic and tranquilizer in a unique delivery system. In addition to improved cognitive function, users also feel a release in stress and anxiety, as well as improved sleep. It’s somewhat unique in this market, and while phenibut will impact everyone differently, it’s common to experience benefits for up to two days after ingesting. Phenibut is a potent nootropic, and it is important to cycle it as indicated. If you can stomach the taste and stick to cycling this supplement as recommended, there’s a lot to be gained from GABAwave.