Xyrem (sodium oxybate) may not be safe to take while pregnant or breastfeeding. Certain factors, including the risk of not treating your condition during pregnancy, may determine whether you should take Xyrem during this time.
Xyrem is a prescription drug used to treat the following narcolepsy symptoms in adults and some children:
It’s not known whether Xyrem is safe to take during pregnancy.
In one animal study, Xyrem didn’t cause problems with fetal development (commonly known as birth defects) when researchers gave the drug to pregnant rats and rabbits. However, the rat pregnancies had an increased risk of stillbirth, reduced weight gain after birth, and decreased survival after birth. But keep in mind that animal studies don’t always predict what will happen in humans.
It’s important to note that not treating narcolepsy symptoms during pregnancy may also carry certain risks. Because of this, you and your doctor should discuss the risks and benefits of taking Xyrem while pregnant versus not treating your condition during this time.
If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor before starting this medication.
It’s not known whether Xyrem is safe to take while you’re breastfeeding.
Xyrem is a form of gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB), which passes into breast milk when a person who’s breastfeeding takes Xyrem. But it’s not known what effects Xyrem or GHB may have on milk production or on a breastfed child.
If you’re currently breastfeeding or planning to do so, talk with your doctor before taking Xyrem.
Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.