Key takeaways
Wakix (pitolisant) and sodium oxybate (Xyrem, Lumryz) are both used to treat cataplexy and excessive daytime sleepiness in people with narcolepsy, but they have some key differences. Wakix is a histamine-3 (H3) receptor antagonist/inverse agonist taken once daily in the morning. Sodium oxybate is a central nervous system depressant with immediate-release (Xyrem) and extended-release (Lumryz) forms, with the immediate-release version requiring two doses per night and the extended-release version taken once at bedtime. Wakix is not a controlled substance and does not carry a risk of addiction, whereas sodium oxybate is a Schedule III controlled substance with potential for misuse and dependence. Common side effects of Wakix include headache, nausea, and trouble sleeping, while sodium oxybate can cause nausea, dizziness, and bedwetting. Additionally, sodium oxybate contains a high amount of sodium, which can be problematic for people with certain health conditions. Unlike Wakix, sodium oxybate is available as a low-cost generic.
