XYREM

Who is Xyrem for ?

Xyrem is used to reduce the number of cataplexy (weak or paralyzed muscles) attacks in patients with narcolepsy.

When should I be careful taking Xyrem ?

Do not take Xyrem if you:

• take other sleep medicines or sedatives (medicines that cause sleepiness).
• have a rare condition called succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency.

Tell your doctor, before you start Xyrem, if you:

• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.
• have or have ever had depression.
• have liver or kidney problems.
• have sleep apnea, snoring, or breathing or lung problems.
• are on a salt restricted diet.
• have high blood pressure.
• have heart failure.

Other notes:

• Tell your doctor about all your medicines you currently are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and supplements.
• Do not drive a car, operate heavy machinery, or perform any activity that is dangerous or that requires mental alertness for at least 6 hours after taking your dose. Also, use extreme care when performing these activities the next day after starting Xyrem, especially until you know whether Xyrem makes you sleepy the next day.
• Do not drink alcohol while taking Xyrem.

Xyrem Side Effects

Tell your doctor if you experience any of the following:

• Trouble breathing or stop breathing for a short time while asleep
• Confusion
• Abnormal thinking
• Depression
• Loss of consciousness
• Sleep-walking (confused behavior during the night that may include walking around and doing other activities while not aware of what you are doing).
• Increased sleepiness during the days
• Snoring
• Breathing problems

The most common side effects are:

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Sleep problems
• Confusion
• Vomiting
• Urinary incontinence