Purpose: While the symptoms of narcolepsy are often amenable to treatment with sodium oxybate (SXB), the respiratory effects of long-term SXB treatment have not been systematically studied. Recent reports have implicated SXB with several cases of worsening sleep-related breathing disturbances and accidental death. In addition, these patients are at risk for obesity, which may aggravate co-morbid obstructive sleep apnea.
Methods: Based on a review of the literature and the clinical experience of the author, recommendations for the use of SXB in patients with sleep-disordered breathing have been developed.
Results: Among narcolepsy patients with evidence of sleep disordered breathing during baseline polysomnography, SXB should be prescribed only to those patients who fully comply with nasal continuous positive airway pressure therapy. The respiratory status of other SXB-treated patients should be periodically evaluated with nocturnal oximetry.
Conclusions: Based on the currently available data, physicians prescribing SXB should remain vigilant for the possible development of sleep-disordered breathing during long-term treatment with SXB.