Gamma-OH

Gamma-OH Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Food Interaction and all others data.

Gamma-OH (Xyrem) is a central nervous system depressant used for the treatment of cataplexy and extreme daytime sleepiness (EDS) associated with narcolepsy. It is the sodium salt of gamma hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) which is an endogenous compound and a metabolite of the neurotransmitter GABA. The exact mechanism of action for treating EDS and cataplexy is not known but is is hypothesised that its therapeutic effects are due to GABA(B) effects on noradrenergic, dopaminaergic and thalamocorticol neurons. The drug follows non-linear pharmacokinetics. As it has been associated with misuse/abuse it is strictly controlled and all patients and prescribers must enroll in the sodium oxybate REMs program in order to gain access to the medication.

Gamma-OH works through an unknown mechanism to treat narcolepsy by inducing sleep within about 5-15 minutes of administration.

Trade Name Gamma-OH
Generic Sodium oxybate
Sodium oxybate Other Names Oxybate sodium, Sodium oxybate
Type
Formula C4H7NaO3
Weight Average: 126.087
Monoisotopic: 126.02928837
Protein binding

Less then 1% is protein bound at concentrations ranging from 3 mcg/L to 300 mcg/L.

Groups Approved
Therapeutic Class
Manufacturer
Available Country France
Last Updated: September 19, 2023 at 7:00 am
Gamma-OH
Gamma-OH

Uses

Gamma-OH is a central nervous system depressant used to treat cataplexy and excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) associated with narcolepsy.

For the treatment of cataplexy and excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) associated with narcolepsy.

Gamma-OH is also used to associated treatment for these conditions: Cataplexy, Excessive Daytime Sleepiness

How Gamma-OH works

The exact mechanism of action is unknown. It is the sodium salt of the endogenous compound gamma hydroxybutyrate which is a metabolite of the GABA neurotransmitter and it's thought that it's therapeutic effects are mediated via GABA B actions at noradrenergic, dopaminergic and thalamocortical neurons.

Toxicity

Symptoms of overdose may include; depressed consciousness that may fluctuate rapidly between a confusional, agitated combative state with ataxia and coma, emesis, diaphoresis, headache and impaired psychomotor skills. Depth of coma varies with the amount ingested and myoclonus and tonic-clonic seizures have been reported. Oral LD50 of 9690mg/kg in rats .

Food Interaction

  • Avoid alcohol.
  • Take separate from meals. Take sodium oxybate at least 2 hours after eating for optimal absorption.

Volume of Distribution

Vd of 37.7-67.7

Elimination Route

Absolute bioavailability is approximately 88%. Tmax of 30.7-51.9min .

Half Life

0.5 to 1 hour.

Clearance

Total clearance of 895-1361mL/min .

Elimination Route

The major metabolite is carbon dioxide which is cleared by expiration, less then 5% appears as the unchanged drug in the urine within 6-8 hours after dosing.

Innovators Monograph

You find simplified version here Gamma-OH

*** Taking medicines without doctor's advice can cause long-term problems.
Share