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Real members of MyNarcolepsyTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Travelling/moving to Canada with Xyrem – any experience? 🇨🇦

A MyNarcolepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
London, UK

Hi! I’m from the UK and I’m moving to British Columbia, Canada in November on a 2-year working holiday visa.

I take Xyrem (sodium oxybate), as well as modafinil and venlafaxine, and I’m currently working out the rules and practicalities around bringing my medication into Canada.

I’ve contacted Health Canada directly to confirm the official requirements, but I’d really like to hear from anyone who has actually travelled or moved to Canada while taking Xyrem/sodium oxybate.

How much Xyrem did you… read more

October 7
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MyNarcolepsyTeam

What a big adventure — moving to British Columbia sounds amazing! This is such a practical and important question, especially given that Xyrem (sodium oxybate) is a tightly controlled substance.

Because Xyrem is a Schedule III controlled substance, it's subject to strict regulations when crossing international borders. Here Show Full Answer

What a big adventure — moving to British Columbia sounds amazing! This is such a practical and important question, especially given that Xyrem (sodium oxybate) is a tightly controlled substance.

Because Xyrem is a Schedule III controlled substance, it's subject to strict regulations when crossing international borders. Here are some general points worth knowing:

- Xyrem is only dispensed through a restricted program (REMS), which is specific to the country where it's prescribed
- Canada has its own version of sodium oxybate available, but access and program requirements may differ from the UK
- Always carry your original labelled bottles — these are essential at customs
- A letter from your prescribing doctor explaining your diagnosis and treatment is strongly recommended
- Declare your medication at customs — always For real-world experiences from people who have actually navigated this journey with Xyrem, the MyNarcolepsyTeam community forums would be the best place to find firsthand accounts from members who've been through similar situations.

Since you've already contacted Health Canada directly, that's exactly the right move. It would also be worth contacting the Xyrem REMS program and Jazz Pharmaceuticals (Xyrem's manufacturer) ahead of your move to understand how to transition your supply and prescription once you're settled in BC.

Planning this well in advance — ideally months before your move — is really important given how controlled this medication is. Running out without a local prescription in place could be a serious problem.

October 7

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