What is riluzole?
Riluzole is a drug for treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). It’s also known as Glentek (riluzole) and Rilutek (riluzole) in generic form.
It comes in tablets with 50mg of riluzole in each.
How does riluzole work?
ALS’s cause is still unknown, but glutamate seems to play a part in cell death.
Riluzole works by stopping glutamate release.
It aims to extend life or delay mechanical ventilation for ALS patients. However, it does not improve motor function, lung function, or muscle strength.
Where has riluzole been approved?
Riluzole is approved for ALS treatment by:
- Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia, February 2016
- The Medicines Evaluation Board (MEB), The Netherlands, June 2014.
It might be approved in other places too. If you’re unsure, contact our support team.
Always talk to a doctor before taking any medicine. The FDA has warned about the quality of medicines from India and Pakistan.
How is riluzole taken?
The usual dose is:
- 1 tablet of 50 mg every 12 hours (total daily dose: 100 mg).
For full details on dosage, see the official prescribing information in our references section.
Remember, your doctor will give you the right dosage.
Are there any known side effects or adverse reactions of riluzole?
Common adverse reactions
Common side effects include:
- asthenia (Lack of energy and strength)
- nausea (feeling sick)
- dizziness
- decreased lung function
- abdominal pain
- abnormal liver function tests.
Serious adverse reactions
Severe side effects include:
- liver injury
- neutropenia (low white blood cells count)
- interstitial lung disease.
Use in specific populations
Riluzole can be dangerous for a fetus. It’s best to avoid pregnancy and breastfeeding.
It’s not safe for people with liver disease or high liver enzymes.
For a full list of side effects, see the official prescribing information.
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