GHB (Oxybate)
XYREM
“Skyrim’s Good Hard Beverage (GHB)”
Dragon from The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
approved for narcolepsy with cataplexy
liquid drop on cataplexy sufferer (degeneration of orexin neurons)
cataplexy – falling on the cat under plexiglass
large sodium exposure, more than with XYWAV
What it isGABA-B and GHB receptor agonist; narcolepsy with cataplexy, as sodium or mixed-salt oxybate.
Why this oneIt consolidates slow-wave sleep and reduces cataplexy, which stimulants do not treat.
What limits itProfound CNS and respiratory depression requires a REMS; alcohol and sedatives are contraindicated. Abuse in drug-facilitated assault is notorious.
FDA-approved for
- narcolepsy (cataplexy/EDS) (2002)
Available strengths
- sol 0.5 g/mL (oral solution)
⚠ BOXED WARNINGS
- CNS depression
- Abuse and misuse
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Legacy pregnancy categoryC
Defining liabilityPotentially fatal respiratory depression and misuse risk
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