Rilutek (Riluzole)

$275.71

Rilutek (riluzole) is a medication used for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

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What is Rilutek (riluzole)?

Rilutek (riluzole) is a glutamate release inhibitor indicated for the treatment of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)[1,2,3].

How does Rilutek (riluzole) work?

It is still not clear how ALS develops, however it seems that the neurotransmitter glutamate plays a role in cell death. Although the exact mode of action is unclear, Rilutek (riluzole) is thought to inhibit the release of glutamate[1].

Rilutek (riluzole) aims to extend life or the time to mechanical ventilation for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). There is no evidence that it has a therapeutic effect on motor function, lung function, fasciculations, muscle strength and motor symptoms[1].

Where has Rilutek (riluzole) been approved?

Rilutek (riluzole) was approved for the treatment of patients with ALS by:

  • Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA, December 12, 1995
  • European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union, June 10, 1996
  • Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia, May 3, 2002

Please note that this medicine may have also been approved in other regions than the ones we’ve listed. If you have a question about its approval in a specific country feel free to contact our support team.

How is Rilutek (riluzole) taken?

The standard dosage is[1,2,3]:

  • 1 tablet of 50 mg every 12 hours (total daily dose: 100 mg).

Complete information about Rilutek (riluzole) dosage and administration can be found in the official prescribing information listed in our references section[1,2,3].

Note: Please consult with your treating doctor for personalised dosing.

Are there any known side effects or adverse reactions of Rilutek (riluzole)?

Common adverse reactions

The most common adverse reactions listed in the prescribing information include[1]:

  • asthenia[1,2] (Lack of energy and strength)
  • nausea[1,2] (feeling sick)
  • dizziness[2]
  • decreased lung function[2]
  • abdominal pain[2]
  • abnormal liver function tests[1].

Serious adverse reactions

The serious adverse reactions listed in the prescribing information include[1,2,3]:

  • liver injury
  • neutropenia (low white blood cells count)
  • interstitial lung disease.

Use in specific populations

Rilutek (riluzole) can be fatal for a fetus, it is advised to avoid pregnancies and breastfeeding.

For a comprehensive list of side effects and adverse reactions please refer to the official prescribing information[1,2,3].

Package

50 mg x 56 tablets