oxybate

Oxybate, also called sodium oxybate or gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) sodium salt, is a central nervous system depressant used as a prescription medication in some countries. It is the sodium salt of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB). In the body it is rapidly absorbed and metabolized to GHB, which interacts with GHB receptors and modulates GABA-B signaling. In clinical contexts, it is formulated as an oral solution for careful, supervised use.

Medical use and indications are most prominent in the treatment of narcolepsy with cataplexy. Sodium oxybate is prescribed to reduce excessive daytime sleepiness and to lessen cataplexy episodes in some patients. In many jurisdictions its distribution is tightly controlled and it is dispensed under specific regulatory programs to minimize abuse and misuse. It is not approved as a general sedative or sleep aid outside of its licensed indications.

Legal status and regulation vary by country. In the United States, the pharmaceutical product containing sodium oxybate is a Schedule III controlled substance with a restricted-access program (REMS) due to its abuse potential. GHB itself is controlled more broadly in many places, and nonprescribed possession or distribution is illegal. Other countries maintain their own schedules and safeguards.

Safety and adverse effects are important considerations. Common effects include dizziness, nausea, and sleepiness, especially when used with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants. Potential risks include respiratory depression, confusion, and complex sleep-related behaviors. As with all controlled-substance medications, it should only be used under medical supervision with careful adherence to dosing and scheduling.