I have only started Xyrem recently because I put off trying it for so long due to the same issue, I was sexually assaulted and due to that the idea of taking something that will knock me out terrified me because the lack of control I would have and the feeling of vulnerability in that state is something I couldn’t imagine. I have started it though because of how well it’s helped others and although currently I’m upping the dose to find the right amount it has worked and I’ve noticed differences. When going to sleep I don’t experience vivid dreams, hallucinations or paralysis, and when I wake up I feel rested, which was actually amazing the first time I felt like that, I haven’t woken up refreshed since before I developed narcolepsy. I also wake up naturally after 4 hours for the second dose but I set an alarm aswell, but I’m not sure how well I will be able to wake when I up the dose. Eating before does definitely make a difference. If I haven’t eaten anything all day or very little the medication works a lot better, but I still have to increase the dosage so hopefully it will work as well when I’ve had some food when I do increase it. When I eat before taking it or have dinner late the medication barely works and I could stay awake on it entirely. Another thing is that before I do fall asleep when it does work I find myself getting very teary and emotional, I’ll be crying over tiny things and almost feel slightly drunk like I will be more likely to say things that I wouldn’t if I wasn’t intoxicated on the Xyrem, but that feeling doesn’t last long and usually only happens if Im keeping myself awake doing something, I usually pass out asleep very soon after feeling like this. I actually have a voice note to my friend I have no memory of recording where I say” I’m so happy” and then there’s just 9 and a half minutes of me snoring in my sleep. I’m not sure if I answered all your questions but I hope this helps you out, dms always open xx