What is the drug riluzole used for?
Riluzole is used to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS; Lou Gehrig’s disease). Riluzole is in a class of medications called benzothiazoles. It works by changing the activity of certain natural substances in the body that affect nerves and muscles.
When should riluzole be given?
Riluzole is available as a tablet or liquid and the recommended dose is 50mg twice daily about 12 hours apart. It should be taken on an empty stomach, for example 1hr before food or 2hrs after food.
How long does riluzole take to work?
The initial clinical trials showed a survival benefit of about 3 months. However, more recent data suggest that the survival benefit may be as much as 12 months, especially for younger patients. Therefore, it is important to start riluzole as soon as possible.
How is riluzole administered?
The recommended dosage for Riluzole tablets is 50 mg taken orally twice daily. Riluzole tablets should be taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3)] .
How does riluzole affect the liver?
The severity of liver injury from riluzole ranges from minor, transient elevations in serum aminotransferase levels to acute hepatic injury with jaundice and possible to acute liver failure.
Is riluzole safe?
Riluzole can harm your liver, especially if you also use certain medicines for infections, birth control, high cholesterol, seizures, pain, or arthritis (including Advil). Other drugs may affect riluzole, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Does riluzole cause constipation?
Adverse Reactions In Controlled Clinical Trials The most common adverse reactions leading to discontinuation in the RILUTEK group were nausea, abdominal pain, constipation, and elevated ALT.
When should I stop taking riluzole?
About 10 percent of patients on Riluzole will experience significant gastrointestinal symptoms or lethargy. This may improve over time, or respond to a dose reduction, but if significant then we would recommend stopping the drug.
Can you take riluzole with other medications?
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: other drugs that may cause liver problems (e.g., allopurinol, methyldopa, sulfasalazine), drugs affecting liver enzymes that remove riluzole from your body (e.g..
