Xyrem Oral

In Depth

Uses and How to Use
Dosage and Storage
Precautions and Side Effects
Drug Interactions

Generic Name: SODIUM OXYBATE SOLUTION - ORAL
Pronounced: (SO-dee-um OX-eh-bait)

Xyrem Oral Warning

Sodium oxybate is a very powerful central nervous system (CNS) depressant with a high risk of abuse. It must be used only for the purpose that your doctor prescribes. It is against the law to use this drug for any other purposes. Abuse and even approved use can result in seizures, severe difficulty breathing, confusion, depression, loss of consciousness, and even death. It must not be used with alcohol or other CNS depressants.

Only patients who take part in the Xyrem Success Program may receive treatment with this medication. Before you receive your prescription, you must register with this program, and your doctor's office must provide educational materials to you. Your doctor must go over this material with you and instruct you how to use this medication safely and effectively. Only doctors enrolled in the Xyrem Success Program may prescribe sodium oxybate, and only the central pharmacy (not your local pharmacy) may dispense it.

Xyrem Oral Side Effects

See also Warning section.

Drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, increased sweating, or headache may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:

difficult/slow/shallow breathing (especially during sleep)
mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion, psychosis, hallucinations, agitation, depression, rare thoughts of suicide)
bedwetting
weakness
ringing in the ears

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur:

sleepwalking

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: