Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Oxybate Oral Solution (SODIUM/CALCIUM/MAGNESIUM/POTASSIUM OXYBATES SOLUTION - ORAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • narcolepsy
  • sleeping

Brand Name(s): Xywav

Generic Name: Calcium/Magnesium/Potassium/Sodium Oxybates

Instructions

Mix each dose with 2 ounces (60 mL) of water.

Drink the medicine.

Measure the dose of liquid medicine carefully. Use the measuring device that comes with the medicine. If you do not have one, please ask your pharmacist for help.

After mixing the medicine, use it within 24 hours. Throw away any leftover medicine. Do not save for later use.

Take the medicine on an empty stomach.

Empty stomach means waiting at least 2 hours after a meal.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take the dose at bedtime or do not wake up to take the second dose on time, return to your normal dosing schedule the next evening. Do not take the missed dose in the morning. Do not take 2 doses of this medicine at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

If you need to stop this medicine, your doctor may wish to gradually reduce the dosage before stopping.

Do not take the medicine more than twice during 24 hours.

Cautions

This medicine can be habit-forming. If you use this medicine regularly for a long time, it can lead to withdrawal symptoms when you stop. Please use this medicine only as directed.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

It is very important that you carefully measure the amount of medicine you take. Your healthcare provider or pharmacist should show you the correct way to measure this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

If possible, avoid using with alcohol, marijuana, or other medicines that can cause dizziness or drowsiness. These include allergy/cold products, muscle relaxers, sleep aids, and pain relievers.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that requires alertness for at least 6 hours after you take this medication. After 6 hours, do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that requires alertness until you are able to do so safely.

Family should check on the patient often. Call the doctor if patient becomes more depressed, has thoughts of suicide, or shows changes in behavior.

Call the doctor if there are any signs of confusion or unusual changes in behavior.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Call your doctor right away if you notice slow or shallow breathing.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • bed wetting
  • diarrhea
  • dizziness or drowsiness
  • headaches
  • nausea and vomiting

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
  • decreased awareness or responsiveness
  • breathing interruption during sleep
  • slow or shallow breathing
  • confusion
  • depression or feeling sad
  • hallucinations (unusual thoughts, seeing or hearing things that are not real)
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • mood changes
  • shakiness
  • sleep walking
  • suicidal thoughts

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.