sodium oxybate

Sodium oxybate is a central nervous system depressant used to treat cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness) and excessive daytime sleepiness in adults and children aged 7 years and older with narcolepsy. It is the sodium salt of gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB). The drug works by reducing activity in the brain, increasing deep sleep at night, and thereby reducing daytime sleepiness. Its precise mechanism of action in narcolepsy is not fully understood but involves actions at GABAB receptors and possibly specific GHB receptors, leading to suppression of dopaminergic neuronal activity. Sodium oxybate increases nocturnal growth hormone secretion and slow-wave sleep. Due to risks such as CNS depression, respiratory depression, abuse potential, addiction, withdrawal syndrome, and overdose risk, it is only available through restricted distribution programs (REMS). It was first approved by the FDA under the brand name Xyrem on July 17, 2002[1][4][5][6][8].

Brand names

XyremLumryz

Other names

gamma hydroxybutyrateGHB