Information about Rilutek (Riluzole)
Rilutek (generic name: Riluzole) is a medication used primarily for the treatment of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. It works by inhibiting the release of glutamate, a neurotransmitter that can cause damage to nerve cells when present in excess. Rilutek is regarded as a disease-modifying treatment for ALS, aiding in slowing the disease's progression and enhancing survival. It is not a cure, but it can extend the patient's life by several months.
Product Highlights
- To slow disease progression and extend survival in ALS patients, particularly when started early in the disease.
- Rilutek may sometimes be used off-label for other neurodegenerative diseases, such as frontotemporal dementia or other conditions involving glutamate toxicity, though its primary indication is ALS.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Rilutek can help slow the loss of motor neurons, which is central to ALS, leading to a more gradual decline in motor function.
- Clinical evidence supports that Rilutek can extend the survival of patients with ALS, especially when used in the earlier stages of the disease.
- While not a cure, the treatment can help maintain some motor functions for a longer period, contributing to better overall quality of life for ALS patients.
- Rilutek is one of the few FDA-approved medications for ALS and is widely recognized as an essential component of ALS management.
Direction of Use
- The suggested dosage of Rilutek for ALS patients is 50 mg, taken twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.
- Rilutek is taken orally with or without food. It should be swallowed whole, without crushing or breaking the tablet.
- It is essential to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain stable drug levels in the bloodstream.
- Regular liver function tests (LFTs) are recommended during treatment with Rilutek, as the medication can affect liver enzymes.
Safety Concerns
- Rilutek can cause liver damage in some individuals. Regular liver function tests are important to monitor liver health during treatment. Symptoms of liver problems may include fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or abdominal pain.
- Some patients may experience nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort while taking Rilutek.
- While Rilutek slows ALS progression, patients may still experience fatigue and weakness as part of the natural course of the disease.
- Rilutek can sometimes cause difficulty breathing, particularly in patients with pre-existing lung conditions.
- Rilutek may cause dizziness, headaches, or mood changes, though these are less common.
Avoid Rilutek (Riluzole) If
- Patients with severe liver disease or elevated liver enzymes should avoid Rilutek, as it may worsen liver damage.
- If you have a known allergy to riluzole or any of the ingredients in the medication, you should not take Rilutek.
- Rilutek is classified as a Category C drug in pregnancy, meaning its safety during pregnancy has not been established. It should only be used when the benefits outweigh the potential risks.
- Rilutek should be avoided during breastfeeding as it is not known whether the drug passes into breast milk and could affect the nursing infant.
- Rilutek should be used cautiously in patients with severe kidney issues, as it is primarily metabolized by the liver.
