SODIUM OXYBATE: 61,009 Adverse Event Reports & Safety Profile
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Drug Class: Central Nervous System Depressant [EPC] · Route: ORAL · Manufacturer: Camber Pharmaceuticals, Inc. · FDA Application: 021196 · HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · FDA Label: Available
Patent Expires: Sep 15, 2033 · First Report: 10180219 · Latest Report: 20250919
What Are the Most Common SODIUM OXYBATE Side Effects?
All SODIUM OXYBATE Side Effects by Frequency
| Side Effect | Reports | % of Total | Deaths | Hosp. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nausea | 4,528 | 7.4% | 1 | 324 |
| Anxiety | 3,678 | 6.0% | 7 | 427 |
| Somnolence | 3,642 | 6.0% | 13 | 378 |
| Feeling abnormal | 3,018 | 5.0% | 3 | 221 |
| Insomnia | 2,993 | 4.9% | 6 | 214 |
| Depression | 2,937 | 4.8% | 8 | 414 |
| Fatigue | 2,923 | 4.8% | 3 | 193 |
| Headache | 2,916 | 4.8% | 2 | 222 |
| Dizziness | 2,699 | 4.4% | 3 | 167 |
| Weight decreased | 2,618 | 4.3% | 7 | 266 |
| Condition aggravated | 2,500 | 4.1% | 8 | 277 |
| Sleep apnoea syndrome | 2,477 | 4.1% | 7 | 136 |
| Drug ineffective | 2,412 | 4.0% | 3 | 174 |
| Unevaluable event | 2,328 | 3.8% | 5 | 149 |
| Pre-existing condition improved | 2,212 | 3.6% | 1 | 186 |
| Fall | 2,189 | 3.6% | 20 | 542 |
| Vomiting | 2,115 | 3.5% | 3 | 273 |
| Hypertension | 1,984 | 3.3% | 4 | 273 |
| Therapeutic response unexpected | 1,710 | 2.8% | 0 | 96 |
| Intentional product use issue | 1,706 | 2.8% | 5 | 164 |
Who Reports SODIUM OXYBATE Side Effects? Age & Gender Data
Gender: 72.9% female, 27.1% male. Average age: 42.3 years. Most reports from: US. View detailed demographics →
Is SODIUM OXYBATE Getting Safer? Reports by Year
| Year | Reports | Deaths | Hosp. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 | 4 | 0 | 2 |
| 2001 | 7 | 0 | 1 |
| 2002 | 10 | 0 | 0 |
| 2003 | 45 | 0 | 7 |
| 2004 | 60 | 1 | 9 |
| 2005 | 89 | 1 | 9 |
| 2006 | 108 | 1 | 16 |
| 2007 | 166 | 1 | 27 |
| 2008 | 209 | 2 | 30 |
| 2009 | 225 | 0 | 30 |
| 2010 | 356 | 1 | 62 |
| 2011 | 435 | 3 | 53 |
| 2012 | 757 | 5 | 110 |
| 2013 | 1,485 | 14 | 179 |
| 2014 | 4,628 | 27 | 490 |
| 2015 | 6,280 | 42 | 469 |
| 2016 | 5,564 | 36 | 391 |
| 2017 | 2,358 | 20 | 347 |
| 2018 | 1,929 | 21 | 331 |
| 2019 | 1,441 | 23 | 308 |
| 2020 | 1,264 | 19 | 324 |
| 2021 | 822 | 21 | 191 |
| 2022 | 523 | 15 | 140 |
| 2023 | 1,065 | 18 | 164 |
| 2024 | 2,130 | 10 | 167 |
| 2025 | 268 | 5 | 32 |
What Is SODIUM OXYBATE Used For?
| Indication | Reports |
|---|---|
| Narcolepsy | 50,696 |
| Cataplexy | 27,637 |
| Somnolence | 6,551 |
| Product used for unknown indication | 3,652 |
| Hypersomnia | 1,420 |
| Insomnia | 1,334 |
| Sleep disorder | 1,311 |
| Fibromyalgia | 1,116 |
| Chronic fatigue syndrome | 137 |
| Apnoea | 122 |
SODIUM OXYBATE vs Alternatives: Which Is Safer?
Official FDA Label for SODIUM OXYBATE
Official prescribing information from the FDA-approved drug label.
Drug Description
Sodium oxybate, a CNS depressant, is the active ingredient in sodium oxybate oral solution. The chemical name for sodium oxybate is sodium 4-hydroxybutyrate. The molecular formula is C 4 H 7 NaO 3 , and the molecular weight is 126.09 g/mole. The chemical structure is: Sodium oxybate is a white to off-white, crystalline powder that is very soluble in aqueous solutions. Each mL of sodium oxybate oral solution contains 0.5 g of sodium oxybate (equivalent to 0.413 g/mL of oxybate) in USP Purified Water, neutralized to pH 8.3 with either sodium hydroxide or hydrochloric acid. Sodium oxybate oral solution is a clear, colorless to pale yellow solution available in a concentration of 500 mg/mL. The inactive ingredients for this solution include malic acid, propylparaben sodium, purified water and sodium hydroxide. chem structure
FDA Approved Uses (Indications)
AND USAGE Sodium oxybate oral solution is indicated for the treatment of cataplexy or excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) in patients with narcolepsy. Pediatric use information is approved for Jazz Pharmaceuticals Inc.’s XYREM (sodium oxybate)
Oral
Solution. However, due to Jazz Pharmaceuticals Inc.’s marketing exclusivity rights, this drug product is not labeled with that pediatric information. Sodium oxybate oral solutio n is a central nervous system depressant indicated for the treatment of cataplexy or excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) in patients with narcolepsy (1).
Dosage & Administration
AND ADMINISTRATION Dosage for Adult Patients
- Initiate dosage at 4.5 g per night orally, divided into two doses ( 2.1 ).
- Titrate to effect in increments of 1.5 g per night at weekly intervals (0.75 g at bedtime and 0.75 g taken 2.5 to 4 hours later) ( 2.1 ).
- Recommended dosage range: 6 g to 9 g per night orally ( 2.1 ).
Total Nightly Dose
Take at Bedtime Take 2.5 to 4 Hours Later 4.5 g per night 2.25 g 2.25 g 6 g per night 3 g 3 g 7.5 g per night 3.75 g 3.75 g 9 g per night 4.5 g 4.5 g Dosage for Pediatric Patients (7 years of Age and Older)
- The recommended starting dosage, titration regimen, and maximum total nightly dosage are based on body weight ( 2.2 ).
Important Administration
Information
- Prepare both doses prior to bedtime; dilute each dose with approximately ¼ cup of water in pharmacy-provided containers ( 2.3 ).
- Allow 2 hours after eating before dosing ( 2.3 ).
- Take each dose while in bed and lie down after dosing ( 2.3 ). Patients with Hepatic Impairment Recommended starting dosage is one-half of the original dosage per night administered orally, divided into two doses ( 2.4 ).
2.1 Adult Dosing Information The recommended starting dosage is 4.5 grams (g) per night administered orally, divided into two doses: 2.25 g at bedtime and 2.25 g taken 2.5 to 4 hours later (see Table 1). Increase the dosage by 1.5 g per night at weekly intervals (additional 0.75 g at bedtime and 0.75 g taken 2.5 to 4 hours later) to the effective dosage range of 6 g to 9 g per night orally. The dosage may be gradually titrated based on efficacy and tolerability. Doses higher than 9 g per night have not been studied and should not ordinarily be administered.
Table
1: Recommended Adult Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution Dose Regimen (g = grams) If a Patient’s Total Nightly Dose is: Take at Bedtime: Take 2.5 to 4 Hours Later: 4.5 g per night 2.25 g 2.25 g 6 g per night 3 g 3 g 7.5 g per night 3.75 g 3.75 g 9 g per night 4.5 g 4.5 g
2.2 Pediatric Dosing Information Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution is administered orally twice nightly. The recommended starting pediatric dosage, titration regimen, and maximum total nightly dosage are based on patient weight, as specified in Table 2. The dosage may be gradually titrated based on efficacy and tolerability.
Table
2: Recommended Pediatric Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution Dosage for Patients 7 Years of Age and Older* Patient Weight Initial Dosage Maximum Weekly Dosage Increase Maximum Recommended Dosage Take at Bedtime: Take 2.5 to 4 Hours Later: Take at Bedtime: Take 2.5 to 4 Hours Later: Take at Bedtime: Take 2.5 to 4 Hours Later: <20 kg ** There is insufficient information to provide specific dosing recommendations for patients who weigh less than 20 kg. 20 kg to <30 kg ≤1 g ≤1 g 0.5 g 0.5 g 3 g 3 g 30 kg to <45 kg ≤1.5 g ≤1.5 g 0.5 g 0.5 g 3.75 g 3.75 g ≥45 kg ≤2.25 g ≤2.25 g 0.75 g 0.75 g 4.5 g 4.5 g *For patients who sleep more than 8 hours per night, the first dose of Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution may be given at bedtime or after an initial period of sleep. **If Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution is used in patients 7 years of age and older who weigh less than 20 kg, a lower starting dosage, lower maximum weekly dosage increases, and lower total maximum nightly dosage should be considered. Note: Some patients may achieve better responses with unequal doses at bedtime and 2.5 to 4 hours later.
2.3 Important Administration Instructions for All Patients The total nightly dosage of Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution is divided into two doses. Prepare both doses of Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution prior to bedtime. Prior to ingestion, each dose of Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution should be diluted with approximately ¼ cup (approximately 60 mL) of water in the empty pharmacy containers provided. Take the first nightly dose of Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution at least 2 hours after eating <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )]</span>. Take the second nightly dose 2.5 to 4 hours after the first dose. Patients should take both doses of Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution while in bed and lie down immediately after dosing, and remain in bed following ingestion of each dose.
Sodium Oxybate Oral
Solution may cause patients to fall asleep abruptly without first feeling drowsy [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] . Patients will often fall asleep within 5 minutes of taking Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution, and will usually fall asleep within 15 minutes, though the time it takes any individual patient to fall asleep may vary from night to night. Patients may need to set an alarm to awaken for the second dose. Rarely, patients may take up to 2 hours to fall asleep. If the second dose is missed, that dose should be skipped and Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution should not be taken again until the next night.
Both Sodium Oxybate Oral
Solution doses should never be taken at one time.
2.4 Dosage Modification in Patients with Hepatic Impairment The recommended starting dosage in patients with hepatic impairment is one-half of the original dosage per night, administered orally divided into two doses <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.6 ) and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )]</span> .
2.5 Dosage Adjustment with Co-administration of Divalproex Sodium When initiating divalproex sodium in patients taking a stable dosage of Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution, a reduction of the Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution dosage by at least 20% is recommended with initial concomitant use <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Drug Interactions ( 7.2 ) and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )]</span> . When initiating Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution in patients already taking divalproex sodium, a lower starting dosage of Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution is recommended. Subsequently, the dosage of Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution can be adjusted based on individual clinical response and tolerability.
Contraindications
Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution is contraindicated for use in:
- combination with sedative hypnotics [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] .
- combination with alcohol [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] .
- patients with succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] .
- In combination with sedative hypnotics or alcohol ( 4 )
- Succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency ( 4 )
Known Adverse Reactions
REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions appear in other sections of the labeling:
- CNS depression [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]
- Abuse and Misuse [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )]
- Respiratory Depression and Sleep-Disordered Breathing [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )]
- Depression and Suicidality [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )]
- Other Behavioral or Psychiatric Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )]
- Parasomnias [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )]
- Use in Patients Sensitive to High Sodium Intake [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] Most common adverse reactions in adults (≥5% and at least twice the incidence with placebo) were nausea, dizziness, vomiting, somnolence, enuresis, and tremor ( 6.1 ). Most common adverse reactions in pediatric patients (≥5%) were nausea, enuresis, vomiting, headache, weight decreased, decreased appetite, dizziness, and sleepwalking ( 6.1 ). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1-800-520-5568, or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice.
Adult Patients Sodium Oxybate Oral
Solution was studied in three placebo-controlled clinical trials (Trials N1, N3, and N4, described in Sections 14.1 and 14.2) in 611 patients with narcolepsy (398 subjects treated with Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution, and 213 with placebo). A total of 781 patients with narcolepsy were treated with Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution in controlled and uncontrolled clinical trials.
Section
6.1 and Table 4 present adverse reactions from three pooled, controlled trials (N1, N3, N4) in patients with narcolepsy.
Adverse Reactions
Leading to Treatment Discontinuation: Of the 398 patients with narcolepsy treated with Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution, 10.3% of patients discontinued because of adverse reactions compared with 2.8% of patients receiving placebo. The most common adverse reaction leading to discontinuation was nausea (2.8%). The majority of adverse reactions leading to discontinuation began during the first few weeks of treatment.
Commonly Observed Adverse
Reactions in Controlled Clinical Trials: The most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥5% and twice the rate seen with placebo) in patients treated with Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution were nausea, dizziness, vomiting, somnolence, enuresis, and tremor.
Adverse Reactions
Occurring at an Incidence of 2% or Greater: Table 4 lists adverse reactions that occurred at a frequency of 2% or more in any treatment group for three controlled trials and were more frequent in any Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution treatment group than with placebo. Adverse reactions are summarized by dose at onset. Nearly all patients in these studies initiated treatment at 4.5 g per night. In patients who remained on treatment, adverse reactions tended to occur early and to diminish over time.
Table
4 Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥2% of Adult Patients and More Frequently with Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution than Placebo in Three Controlled Trials (N1, N3, N4) by Body System and Dose at Onset Adverse Reaction Placebo (n=213) % Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution 4.5g (n=185) % Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution 6g (n=258) % Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution 9g (n=178) % ANY ADVERSE REACTION 62 45 55 70 GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS Nausea 3 8 13 20 Vomiting 1 2 4 11 Diarrhea 2 4 3 4 Abdominal pain upper 2 3 1 2 Dry mouth 2 1 2 1 GENERAL DISORDERS AND ADMINISTRATIVE SITE CONDITIONS Pain 1 1 <1 3 Feeling drunk 1 0 <1 3 Edema peripheral 1 3 0 0 MUSCULOSKELETAL AND CONNECTIVE TISSUE DISORDERS Cataplexy 1 1 1 2 Muscle spasms 2 2 <1 2 Pain in extremity 1 3 1 1 NERVOUS SYSTEM DISORDERS Dizziness 4 9 11 15 Somnolence 4 1 3 8 Tremor 0 0 2 5 Disturbance in attention 0 1 0 4 Paresthesia 1 2 1 3 Sleep paralysis 1 0 1 3 PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS Disorientation 1 1 2 3 Irritability 1 0 <1 3 Sleepwalking 0 0 0 3 Anxiety 1 1 1 2 RENAL AND URINARY DISORDERS Enuresis 1 3 3 7 SKIN AND SUBCUTANEOUS TISSUE DISORDERS Hyperhidrosis 0 1 1 3 Dose-Response Information In clinical trials in narcolepsy, a dose-response relationship was observed for nausea, vomiting, paresthesia, disorientation, irritability, disturbance in attention, feeling drunk, sleepwalking, and enuresis. The incidence of all these reactions was notably higher at 9 g per night. In controlled trials in narcolepsy, discontinuations of treatment due to adverse reactions were greater at higher doses of Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution.
Pediatric
Patients (7 Years of Age and Older) In the pediatric clinical trial (Trial N5), 104 patients aged 7 to 17 years (37 patients aged 7 to 11 years; 67 patients aged 12 to 17 years) with narcolepsy received Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution for up to one year. This study included an open-label safety continuation period in which eligible patients received Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution for up to an additional 2 years. The median and maximum exposure across the entire study were 371 and 987 days, respectively.
Adverse Reactions
Leading to Treatment Discontinuation In the pediatric clinical trial, 7 of 104 patients reported adverse reactions that led to withdrawal from the study (hallucination, tactile; suicidal ideation; weight decreased; sleep apnea syndrome; affect lability; anger, anxiety, depression; and headache).
Adverse
Reactions in the Pediatric Clinical Trial The most common adverse reactions (≥5%) were nausea (20%), enuresis (19%), vomiting (18%), headache (17%), weight decreased (13%), decreased appetite (9%), dizziness (8%), and sleepwalking (6%). Additional information regarding safety in pediatric patients appears in the following sections:
- Respiratory Depression and Sleep-Disordered Breathing [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )]
- Depression and Suicidality [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )]
- Other Behavioral or Psychiatric Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )]
- Parasomnias [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] The overall adverse reaction profile of Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution in the pediatric clinical trial was similar to that seen in the adult clinical trial program.
6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure: arthralgia, decreased appetite, fall*, fluid retention, hangover, headache, hypersensitivity, hypertension, memory impairment, nocturia, panic attack, vision blurred, and weight decreased. *The sudden onset of sleep in patients taking sodium oxybate, including in a standing position or while rising from bed, has led to falls complicated by injuries, in some cases requiring hospitalization.
FDA Boxed Warning
WARNING: CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM (CNS) DEPRESSION and ABUSE AND MISUSE.
Central Nervous System Depression
Sodium oxybate is a CNS depressant. In clinical trials at recommended doses, obtundation and clinically significant respiratory depression occurred in adult patients treated with sodium oxybate oral solution [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]. Many patients who received sodium oxybate oral solution during clinical trials in narcolepsy were receiving central nervous system stimulants [see Clinical Trials ( 14 )]. Abuse and Misuse Sodium oxybate is the sodium salt of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB). Abuse or misuse of illicit GHB, either alone or in combination with other CNS depressants, is associated with CNS adverse reactions, including seizure, respiratory depression, decreases in the level of consciousness, coma, and death [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )]. Because of the risks of CNS depression and abuse and misuse, sodium oxybate oral solution is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the Sodium Oxybate REMS Program [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] . WARNING: CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM (CNS) DEPRESSION and ABUSE AND MISUSE. See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning.
Central Nervous System Depression
Sodium oxybate oral solution is a CNS depressant, and respiratory depression can occur with sodium oxybate oral solution use ( 5.1 , 5.4 ) Abuse and Misuse Sodium oxybate oral solution is the sodium salt of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB). Abuse or misuse of illicit GHB is associated with CNS adverse reactions, including seizure, respiratory depression, decreased consciousness, coma, and death ( 5.2 , 9.2 ) Sodium oxybate oral solution is available only through a restricted program called the Sodium Oxybate REMS Program (5.3)
Warnings
AND PRECAUTIONS
- CNS depression: Use caution when considering the concurrent use of LUMRYZ with other CNS depressants ( 5.1 ).
- Caution patients against hazardous activities requiring complete mental alertness or motor coordination within the first 6 hours of dosing or after first initiating treatment until certain that LUMRYZ does not affect them adversely ( 5.1 ).
- Depression and suicidality: Monitor patients for emergent or increased depression and suicidality ( 5.5 ).
- Confusion/Anxiety: Monitor for impaired motor/cognitive function ( 5.6 ).
- Parasomnias: Evaluate episodes of sleepwalking ( 5.7 ).
- High sodium content in LUMRYZ: Monitor patients with heart failure, hypertension, or impaired renal function ( 5.8 ).
5.1 Central Nervous System Depression LUMRYZ is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. Clinically significant respiratory depression and obtundation has occurred in patients treated with immediate-release sodium oxybate at recommended doses in clinical trials and may occur in patients treated with LUMRYZ at recommended doses. LUMRYZ is contraindicated in combination with alcohol and sedative hypnotics. The concurrent use of LUMRYZ with other CNS depressants, including but not limited to opioid analgesics, benzodiazepines, sedating antidepressants or antipsychotics, sedating antiepileptic drugs, general anesthetics, muscle relaxants, and/or illicit CNS depressants, may increase the risk of respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, syncope, and death. If use of these CNS depressants in combination with LUMRYZ is required, dose reduction or discontinuation of one or more CNS depressants (including LUMRYZ) should be considered. In addition, if short-term use of an opioid (e.g., post- or perioperative) is required, interruption of treatment with LUMRYZ should be considered. In addition to coadministration of LUMRYZ and alcohol being contraindicated because of respiratory depression, consumption of alcohol while taking LUMRYZ may also result in a more rapid release of the dose of sodium oxybate <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]</span> . Healthcare providers should caution patients about operating hazardous machinery, including automobiles or airplanes, until they are reasonably certain that LUMRYZ does not affect them adversely (e.g., impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills). Patients should not engage in hazardous occupations or activities requiring complete mental alertness or motor coordination, such as operating machinery or a motor vehicle or flying an airplane, for at least 6 hours after taking LUMRYZ. Patients should be queried about CNS depression-related events upon initiation of LUMRYZ therapy and periodically thereafter. LUMRYZ is available only through a restricted program under a REMS <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ]</span>.
5.2 Abuse and Misuse LUMRYZ is a Schedule III controlled substance. The active ingredient of LUMRYZ, sodium oxybate, is the sodium salt of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), a Schedule I controlled substance. Abuse of illicit GHB, either alone or in combination with other CNS depressants, is associated with CNS adverse reactions, including seizure, respiratory depression, decreases in the level of consciousness, coma, and death. The rapid onset of sedation, coupled with the amnestic features of GHB, particularly when combined with alcohol, has proven to be dangerous for the voluntary and involuntary user (e.g., assault victim). Because illicit use and abuse of GHB have been reported, physicians should carefully evaluate patients for a history of drug abuse and follow such patients closely, observing them for signs of misuse or abuse of GHB (e.g., increase in size or frequency of dosing, drug-seeking behavior, feigned cataplexy) <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) and Drug Abuse and Dependence (9.2) ]</span>. LUMRYZ is available only through a restricted program under a REMS <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ]</span>.
5.3 LUMRYZ REMS LUMRYZ is available only through a restricted distribution program called the LUMRYZ REMS because of the risks of central nervous system depression and abuse and misuse <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 , 5.2) ]</span> . Notable requirements of the LUMRYZ REMS include the following:
- Healthcare providers who prescribe LUMRYZ are specially certified.
- LUMRYZ will be dispensed only by pharmacies that are specially certified.
- LUMRYZ will be dispensed and shipped only to patients who are enrolled in the LUMRYZ REMS with documentation of safe use conditions. Further information is available at www.LUMRYZREMS.com or by calling 1-877-453-1029.
5.4 Respiratory Depression and Sleep-Disordered Breathing LUMRYZ may impair respiratory drive, especially in patients with compromised respiratory function. In overdoses of oxybate and with illicit use of GHB, life-threatening respiratory depression has been reported <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Overdosage (10) ]</span> . Increased apnea and reduced oxygenation may occur with LUMRYZ administration. A significant increase in the number of central apneas and clinically significant oxygen desaturation may occur in patients with obstructive sleep apnea treated with LUMRYZ. During polysomnographic evaluation (PSG), central sleep apnea and oxygen desaturation were observed in pediatric patients with narcolepsy treated with immediate-release sodium oxybate. In adult clinical trials of LUMRYZ in patients with narcolepsy, no subjects with apnea/hypopnea indexes greater than 15 were allowed to enroll. In an adult study assessing the respiratory-depressant effects of immediate-release sodium oxybate at doses up to 9 g per night in 21 patients with narcolepsy, no dose-related changes in oxygen saturation were demonstrated in the group as a whole. One of four patients with preexisting moderate-to-severe sleep apnea had significant worsening of the apnea/hypopnea index during treatment. In an adult study assessing the effects of immediate-release sodium oxybate 9 g per night in 50 patients with obstructive sleep apnea, immediate-release sodium oxybate did not increase the severity of sleep-disordered breathing and did not adversely affect the average duration and severity of oxygen desaturation overall. However, there was a significant increase in the number of central apneas in patients taking immediate-release sodium oxybate, and clinically significant oxygen desaturation (≤55%) was measured in three patients (6%) after administration, with one patient withdrawing from the study and two continuing after single brief instances of desaturation. In adult clinical trials in 128 patients with narcolepsy administered immediate-release sodium oxybate, two subjects had profound CNS depression, which resolved after supportive respiratory intervention. Two other patients discontinued immediate-release sodium oxybate because of severe difficulty breathing and an increase in obstructive sleep apnea. In two controlled trials assessing polysomnographic (PSG) measures in adult patients with narcolepsy administered immediate-release sodium oxybate, 40 of 477 patients were included with a baseline apnea/hypopnea index of 16 to 67 events per hour, indicative of mild to severe sleep-disordered breathing. None of the 40 patients had a clinically significant worsening of respiratory function, as measured by apnea/hypopnea index and pulse oximetry at doses of 4.5 g to 9 g per night. Prescribers should be aware that sleep-related breathing disorders tend to be more prevalent in obese patients, in men, in postmenopausal women not on hormone replacement therapy, and among patients with narcolepsy. Increased central apneas and clinically relevant desaturation events have been observed with immediate-release sodium oxybate administration in adult and pediatric patients.
5.5 Depression and Suicidality Depression, and suicidal ideation and behavior, can occur in patients treated with LUMRYZ. In an adult clinical trial in patients with narcolepsy administered LUMRYZ <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]</span> , there were no suicide attempts, but one patient developed suicidal ideation at the 9 g dose. In adult clinical trials in patients with narcolepsy (n=781) administered immediate-release sodium oxybate, there were two suicides and two attempted suicides in patients treated with immediate-release sodium oxybate, including three patients with a previous history of depressive psychiatric disorder. Of the two suicides, one patient used immediate-release sodium oxybate in conjunction with other drugs. Immediate-release sodium oxybate was not involved in the second suicide. Adverse reactions of depression were reported by 7% of 781 patients treated with immediate-release sodium oxybate, with four patients (<1%) discontinuing because of depression. In most cases, no change in immediate-release sodium oxybate treatment was required. In a controlled trial in adults with narcolepsy administered LUMRYZ where patients were titrated from 4.5 g to 9 g per night, the incidences of depression were 0% at 4.5 g, 1% at 6 g, 1.1% at 7.5 g, and 1.3% at 9 g. In a controlled adult trial, with patients randomized to fixed doses of 3 g, 6 g, or 9 g per night immediate-release sodium oxybate or placebo, there was a single event of depression at the 3 g per night dose. In another adult controlled trial, with patients titrated from an initial 4.5 g per night starting dose of immediate-release sodium oxybate, the incidences of depression were 1.7%, 1.5%, 3.2%, and 3.6% for the placebo, 4.5 g, 6 g, and 9 g per night doses, respectively. In a clinical trial in pediatric patients with narcolepsy (n=104) administered immediate-release sodium oxybate, one patient experienced suicidal ideation and two patients reported depression while taking immediate-release sodium oxybate. The emergence of depression in patients treated with LUMRYZ requires careful and immediate evaluation. Patients with a previous history of a depressive illness and/or suicide attempt should be monitored carefully for the emergence of depressive symptoms while taking LUMRYZ.
5.6 Other Behavioral or Psychiatric Adverse Reactions Other behavioral and psychiatric adverse reactions can occur in patients taking LUMRYZ. During adult clinical trials in patients with narcolepsy administered LUMRYZ, 2% of 107 patients treated with LUMRYZ experienced a confusional state. During adult clinical trials in patients with narcolepsy administered immediate-release sodium oxybate, 3% of 781 patients treated with immediate-release sodium oxybate experienced confusion, with incidence generally increasing with dose. No patients treated with LUMRYZ discontinued treatment because of confusion. Less than 1% of patients discontinued the immediate-release sodium oxybate because of confusion. Confusion was reported at all recommended doses of immediate-release sodium oxybate from 6 g to 9 g per night. In a controlled trial in adults where patients were randomized to immediate-release sodium oxybate in fixed total daily doses of 3 g, 6 g, or 9 g per night or placebo, a dose-response relationship for confusion was demonstrated, with 17% of patients at 9 g per night experiencing confusion. In that controlled trial, the confusion resolved in all cases soon after termination of treatment. In one trial where immediate-release sodium oxybate was titrated from an initial 4.5 g per night dose, there was a single event of confusion in one patient at the 9 g per night dose. In the majority of cases in all adult clinical trials in patients with narcolepsy administered immediate-release sodium oxybate, confusion resolved either soon after termination of dosing or with continued treatment. Anxiety occurred in 7.5% of 107 patients treated with LUMRYZ in the adult trial in patients with narcolepsy. Anxiety occurred in 5.8% of the 874 patients receiving immediate-release sodium oxybate in adult clinical trials in another population. Other psychiatric reactions reported in adult clinical trials in patients with narcolepsy administered LUMRYZ included irritability, emotional disorder, panic attack, agitation, delirium, and obsessive thoughts. Other neuropsychiatric reactions reported in adult clinical trials in patients with narcolepsy administered immediate-release sodium oxybate and in the postmarketing setting for immediate-release sodium oxybate include hallucinations, paranoia, psychosis, aggression, and agitation. In a clinical trial in pediatric patients with narcolepsy administered immediate-release sodium oxybate, neuropsychiatric reactions, including acute psychosis, confusion, and anxiety were reported while taking immediate-release sodium oxybate. The emergence or increase in the occurrence of behavioral or psychiatric events in patients taking LUMRYZ should be carefully monitored.
5.7 Parasomnias Parasomnias can occur in patients taking LUMRYZ. Sleepwalking, defined as confused behavior occurring at night and at times associated with wandering, was reported in 3% of 107 adult patients with narcolepsy treated with LUMRYZ. No patients treated with LUMRYZ discontinued due to sleepwalking. Sleepwalking was reported in 6% of 781 patients with narcolepsy treated with immediate-release sodium oxybate in adult controlled and long-term open-label studies, with <1% of patients discontinuing due to sleepwalking. In controlled trials, rates of sleepwalking were similar for patients taking placebo and patients taking immediate-release sodium oxybate. It is unclear if some or all of the reported sleepwalking episodes correspond to true somnambulism, which is a parasomnia occurring during non-REM sleep, or to any other specific medical disorder. Five instances of sleepwalking with potential injury or significant injury were reported during a clinical trial of immediate-release sodium oxybate in patients with narcolepsy. Parasomnias, including sleepwalking, have been reported in a pediatric clinical trial and in postmarketing experience with immediate-release sodium oxybate. Therefore, episodes of sleepwalking should be fully evaluated, and appropriate interventions considered.
5.8 Use in Patients Sensitive to High Sodium Intake LUMRYZ has a high sodium content. In patients sensitive to sodium intake (e.g., those with heart failure, hypertension, or renal impairment), consider the amount of daily sodium intake in each dose of LUMRYZ.
Table
1 provides the approximate sodium content per LUMRYZ dose.
Table
1: Approximate Sodium Content per Total Nightly Dose of LUMRYZ (g = grams)
Lumryz
Dose Sodium Content/Total Nightly Exposure 4.5 g per night 820 mg 6 g per night 1100 mg 7.5 g per night 1400 mg 9 g per night 1640 mg
Drug Interactions
INTERACTIONS
- Concomitant use with divalproex sodium: An initial reduction in Sodium Oxybate Oral Solution dose of at least 20% is recommended ( 2.5 , 7.2 ).