Sodium Oxybate is being tested as a potential treatment option for spasmodic dysphonia

Sodium Oxybate, also known as Xyrem, is being tested as a potential treatment option to reduce the symptoms of spasmodic dysphonia. Xyrem is an oral agent with therapeutic effects similar to those of alcohol. It is thought to reduce symptoms in alcohol-responsive SD and vocal tremor patients.

Studies show that the long-term treatment effects correlate with attenuated brain activity in the key regions of dystonic brain network. 

Sodium oxybate is a controlled substance and is not currently authorized for use with spasmodic dysphonia but research could show this as an effective future treatment option.

For more information, please contact Dr. Kristina Simonyan at the Dystonia Speech and Motor Control Laboratory at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary in Boston, MA.