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What is Rilutek
RiluzoleThe Generic name of this drug
Treatment SummaryRiluzole, commercially known as Rilutek, is a drug used to treat seizures and prolong the life of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). It works by blocking the glutamate receptors, preventing seizures from occurring.
Rilutekis the brand name
Rilutek Overview & Background
Brand Name
Generic Name
First FDA Approval
How many FDA approvals?
Rilutek
Riluzole
1995
22
Approved as Treatment by the FDA
Riluzole, also known as Rilutek, is approved by the FDA for 1 uses like Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis .Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Helps manage Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Effectiveness
How Rilutek Affects PatientsRiluzole is a medication used to treat those with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). It helps to extend life expectancy and may act as a protective agent against damage to the nervous system caused by glutamate. The exact cause of ALS is unknown, but some researchers believe it may be caused by a genetic predisposition or environmental factors. In some cases, superoxide dismutase (an enzyme) may be defective.
How Rilutek works in the bodyWe don't know exactly how riluzole works, but it is believed to have three effects. First, it reduces the amount of a chemical called glutamate released by cells. Second, it blocks sodium channels that help control electrical signals in the body. Finally, it disrupts chemical signals triggered by the binding of certain chemical messengers.
When to interrupt dosage
The amount of Rilutek is contingent upon the determined condition. The measurement of dosage fluctuates as per the method of delivery (e.g. Tablet - Oral or Tablet, film coated - Oral) featured in the following table.Condition
Dosage
Administration
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
50.0 mg, , 5.0 mg/mL
, Oral, Tablet, film coated, Tablet, film coated - Oral, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Liquid, Liquid - Oral, Film - Oral, Film
Warnings
There are 20 known major drug interactions with Rilutek.Common Rilutek Drug Interactions
Drug Name
Risk Level
Description
Azelastine
Major
Riluzole may increase the central nervous system depressant (CNS depressant) activities of Azelastine.
Ethanol
Major
Riluzole may increase the central nervous system depressant (CNS depressant) activities of Ethanol.
Oliceridine
Major
The risk or severity of hypotension, sedation, death, somnolence, and respiratory depression can be increased when Riluzole is combined with Oliceridine.
Thalidomide
Major
Riluzole may increase the central nervous system depressant (CNS depressant) activities of Thalidomide.
Daridorexant
Minor
The risk or severity of CNS depression can be increased when Riluzole is combined with Daridorexant.
Rilutek Novel Uses: Which Conditions Have a Clinical Trial Featuring Rilutek?
19 active studies are currently investigating the potential of Rilutek to improve symptoms associated with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.Condition
Clinical Trials
Trial Phases
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
14 Actively Recruiting
Phase 1, Phase 2, Not Applicable
Rilutek Reviews: What are patients saying about Rilutek?
5Patient Review
1/7/2009 I haven't had any issues with this drug, and it doesn't seem to have any negative side effects. My doctor did reduce my dosage from 2 pills a day to 1 because my liver enzymes were up, but they've been fine since then.
5Patient Review
10/29/20075Patient Review
4/13/2008 The pill is a good size and easy to swallow. I didn't have any problem with it dissolving in my mouth, but if you don't consume it right away, you may experience numbness and tingling of the tongue and mouth.
3.3Patient Review
3/23/2014 It's hard to say how effective this medication is because I don't know how I would feel without it. No obvious side effects, which is great. The only downside is not knowing how long I should take the drug for; Liver damage is a possibility after extended use.
3.3Patient Review
2/9/2009 I'm not sure if this medication actually does anything or if it's just a placebo.
3Patient Review
3/24/2012 I've been using this treatment for three months and, unfortunately, it doesn't seem to be working as well as I'd hoped. My liver function tests have come back abnormal and I'm feeling more fatigued than before. Additionally, the edema in my lower legs has gotten worse and I've developed insomnia. Unless things improve, I'm going to call and request an earlier appointment with my doctor.
3Patient Review
6/28/2010 I'm not sure what this medication does, but I've been on it for a month now. My doctor ordered blood tests every month, and the first one just came back--I don't know what the results mean yet. Hopefully they'll be positive and show some improvement in my condition. I'll update this review when I find out more from my neurologist.
3Patient Review
12/26/2011 I can't say for certain if this drug is working or not. I haven't had any adverse reactions, but I also haven't seen any improvement in my condition.
3Patient Review
3/13/2011 I've experienced a lot of side effects, like vomiting, stomach cramps, dizziness, and fatigue. I can't tell if the medication is actually working or not.
2.3Patient Review
10/10/2013 I wasn't sure if I wanted to take this drug because it might extend my disability, which would put more of a burden on my family. However, I decided to give it a try. I find that it makes me weaker, which is not ideal given my condition. It does have the desired effect of numbing my mouth, though I have little appetite as a result.
2.3Patient Review
5/23/2015 I have become noticeably weaker since I started taking this drug, and I'm not sure if it's the medicine or my disease. Other users have made similar observations. Hopefully my doctor will be able to give me some answers at my next appointment.
2.3Patient Review
4/10/2010 Made me very drowsy and considerably weaker. I'm unable to function as well as I used to. Reduced the dose from 50mg twice a day to 25mg once a day, and the weakness and sleepiness is still there but not as bad.
2Patient Review
10/16/2012 I had to stop taking this after only four months because my liver tests came back elevated. I'm disappointed and hope that it works better for other people.
1.7Patient Review
10/13/2015 I'm extremely exhausted all the time since I started taking this drug a few weeks ago. It's interfered with my ability to walk, work, and even drive. Not sure if I want to keep taking it.
1Patient Review
5/22/2010 Rilutek contains a cancer-causing agent. Please do your research before taking this drug.
Patient Q&A Section about rilutek
These questions and answers are submitted by anonymous patients, and have not been verified by our internal team.Does riluzole have side effects?
"Riluzole may cause weakness, dizziness, stomach pain, nausea, or breathing problems."
Answered by AI
How effective is Rilutek?
"The only drug shown to prolong survival for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is riluzole, which was associated with a 35% reduction in mortality in a clinical trial."
Answered by AI
What drug class is Rilutek?
"Riluzole belongs to a class of drugs called benzothiazoles. These drugs work by changing the way certain natural substances in the body affect nerves and muscles."
Answered by AI
What is Rilutek used for?
"This medication is used to treat a certain nerve disease called amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, which is also commonly called Lou Gehrig's disease. Riluzole helps to slow down the worsening of the disease and prolong survival."
Answered by AI