The active ingredient of Xyrum is sodium oxybate which is used to reduce cataplexy attacks in patients with narcolepsy. This is a condition that is characterized by weak or paralyzed muscles in the body. However it was the safety concerns of the use of the drug that brought tight restriction on distribution of Xyrem.

An ingredient of Xyrem, GHB was marketed as dietary supplement for various purposes like releasing growth hormones, enhancing sexual and athletic performance, as a recreational drug, for date rape and for relieving depression. However with the increased use of GHB, increased reports of deaths were made which is why FDA made public announcements about dangers of GHB and its products.

Today Xyrem is available by prescription through a restricted distribution program, called Xyrem success program. This is a program that ensures the safe use of the drug through physician education, patient education, registration and detailed patient surveillance. And as Xyrem is a controlled substance, its illicit use can lead to penalties. Anyone selling, distributing, giving Xyrem to others or uses Xyrem for other purposes can be punished under Federal and state law with fines and jail.

There are some side effects with GHB that include confusion, depression, and loss of consciousness, abnormal thinking and trouble breathing when sleeping. And its abuse can lead to dependence and craving fro the medicine with severe withdrawal symptoms. When taking Xyrem, it is better to avoid work that requires full attention like driving and operating heavy machinery. Don’t drink alcohol or take sedatives when taking Xyrem as it can increase the occurrence of side effects. If you have some unused Xyrem, never share it with other people. Call up the pharmacy you had bought it from and ask them what to do with it.