Xyrem facts

Gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB) was approved for oral treatment of cataplexy in patients with narcolepsy, and also in excessive daytime somnolence in the same patients. Xyrem is a rapid acting hypnotic with a short half life, increasing the duration of stage 3 and 4 sleep. It does not cause tolerance or dependence upon abrupt cessation, but abuse has been reported with craving and severe dependence. It can cause respiratory depression and death if taken with other sedatives. It can worsen sleep apnea, cause HA/N/V/dizziness, depression, nocturnal urinary incontinence, sleepwalking, and has sodium which could be a problem in patients with CHF, CRF or HTN.

Dosing: begin at 4.5 g per night: 2.25 g at bedtime when in bed 2-4 hours after a meal and repeat 2.5-4 hours later. Titrate by 1.5 grams per night eavery 2 weeks to a total of 9 grams. Xyrem is a available as an oral solution in 180 ml bottles with 500 mg/ml.

Central pharmacy prescriptions are available at the Xyrem success program, 1866 997 3688