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Low Sodium Oxybate

Leiden University Medical Center · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Low sodium oxybate is a reduced-sodium formulation of sodium oxybate that enhances GABAergic and GHB receptor signaling in the central nervous system to reduce excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy.

Low sodium oxybate is a reduced-sodium formulation of sodium oxybate that enhances GABAergic and GHB receptor signaling in the central nervous system to reduce excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy. Used for Narcolepsy type 1 with cataplexy, Excessive daytime sleepiness in narcolepsy.

At a glance

Generic nameLow Sodium Oxybate
Also known asXYWAV, JZP-258, Xywav, Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, and Sodium Oxybates
SponsorLeiden University Medical Center
Drug classGHB receptor agonist / GABA-B receptor agonist
TargetGHB receptor, GABA-B receptor
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaNeurology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Oxybate is a prodrug of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), which acts as a neuromodulator at GHB receptors and GABA-B receptors in the brain. By lowering sodium content while maintaining therapeutic oxybate levels, this formulation reduces sodium intake burden in patients requiring chronic oxybate therapy, particularly important for those with comorbid hypertension or cardiovascular concerns. The mechanism of action remains identical to standard sodium oxybate, but with improved tolerability regarding sodium-related adverse effects.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results