Patient Information on Sodium Oxybate

Sodium oxybate is a central nervous system depressant. It is a very powerful medication and must only be used under close doctor supervision. It is also prescribed under the brand name Xyrem. This medication is also referred to as GHB, gamma hydroxybuytrate.

This central nervous system depressant is prescribed to treat narcolepsy, a condition in which patients experience severe sleepiness during the day. This medication helps to reduce symptoms such as unwanted sleep attacks and daytime naps, daytime sleepiness, awakening at night, and cataplexy (short, sudden attacks of paralyzed/weak muscles).

This medication must be taken exactly as directed to avoid life-threatening side effects and complications. Doses must be diluted with two ounces of water and patients must strictly adhere to the Medication Guide when creating their dosage. Patients will most often take their first dose immediately before bed and their second dose four hours later. Patients should remain in bed while taking both doses.

Patients with certain medical conditions may not be able to take this drug. The contraindicated medical conditions include succinic, semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency, mental problems, mood problems, depression, liver disease, heart problems, kidney disease, history of alcohol or drug abuse, and breathing problems.

Patients may experience side effects when taking sodium oxybate. The common side effects include drowsiness, headache, dizziness, increased sweating, nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain and vomiting. Serious side effects may also occur. If they do occur the patient should immediately notify their doctor or seek immediate medical treatment. The serious side effects include sleepwalking, slow/difficult/shallow breathing (particularly when sleeping), ringing in the ears, changes in mood or mental status, weakness, confusion, bedwetting, psychosis, suicidal thoughts, hallucinations, depression, and agitation.

Certain medications may interact with this drug. These medications include sedatives, antihistamines, psychiatric medicines, anti-seizure medications, narcotic analgesics, and muscle relaxants.

This medication can lead to severe breathing problems, seizures, loss of consciousness, depression, confusion, and sometimes death. Abusing this medication or combining it with other central nervous system depressants or alcohol make these complications more likely to occur. Patients should avoid dangerous activities. Patients on a low-salt diet should notify their doctors before starting this medication. Pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding should avoid this drug.

RxList. (2009). Sodium Oxybate. Retrieved on October 27, 2009 from Website: http://www.rxlist.com/xyrem-drug.htm