Riluzole
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Benzothiazole
Controlled Drug Substance
No
riluzole
Summary
Riluzole is used to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which is a progressive nervous system disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to loss of muscle control.
Riluzole works by reducing the release of glutamate, which is a chemical that can damage nerve cells. This helps slow the progression of ALS symptoms.
Riluzole is usually taken as a 50 mg tablet twice daily, every 12 hours, on an empty stomach. This means taking it at least one hour before or two hours after a meal.
Common side effects of riluzole include nausea, dizziness, and fatigue, which means feeling very tired. These effects are usually mild and vary from person to person.
Riluzole can cause liver damage, so regular liver function tests are necessary. It should not be used by people with severe liver disease or a known allergy to it.
Indications and Purpose
How does riluzole work?
Riluzole works by inhibiting the release of glutamate, which is a neurotransmitter that can damage nerve cells. Think of it like turning down the volume on a radio to prevent noise damage. By reducing glutamate levels, riluzole helps protect nerve cells and slow the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) symptoms.
Is riluzole effective?
Riluzole is primarily used to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which is a progressive nervous system disease. It works by slowing the progression of the disease, helping to extend survival and delay the need for a tracheostomy. Clinical studies support its effectiveness in managing ALS symptoms.
What is riluzole?
Riluzole is a medication used to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which is a progressive nervous system disease. It belongs to the class of drugs called glutamate inhibitors. Riluzole works by reducing the release of glutamate, which is a chemical that can damage nerve cells. This helps slow the progression of ALS symptoms.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take riluzole?
Riluzole is usually a long-term medication for managing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). You'll typically take riluzole every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your condition to worsen. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your riluzole treatment.
How do I dispose of riluzole?
To dispose of riluzole, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. Mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take riluzole?
Riluzole is usually taken twice daily, every 12 hours, on an empty stomach. This means you should take it at least one hour before or two hours after a meal. Do not crush or chew the tablets. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Never take two doses at once.
How long does it take for riluzole to start working?
Riluzole begins working in your body shortly after you take it, but the full therapeutic effects may take several weeks to become noticeable. The time it takes to see benefits can vary based on individual factors like your overall health and the progression of your condition. Take riluzole exactly as prescribed for the best results.
How should I store riluzole?
Store riluzole at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container. Do not store it in the bathroom, where humidity can affect the medication. Always keep riluzole out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. Check the expiration date regularly and dispose of expired medication properly.
What is the usual dose of riluzole?
The usual starting dose of riluzole for adults is 50 mg taken twice daily, every 12 hours. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response to the medication and any side effects you experience. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take riluzole with other prescription drugs?
Riluzole can interact with certain medications, increasing the risk of side effects. For example, it may interact with drugs that affect liver enzymes, like some antibiotics and antifungals. These interactions can increase riluzole levels in your body, leading to toxicity. Always inform your doctor about all medications you're taking to avoid interactions.
Can riluzole be taken safely while breastfeeding?
The safety of riluzole while breastfeeding is not well-established. It's unclear if riluzole passes into breast milk or affects milk production. If you're taking riluzole and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely.
Can riluzole be taken safely while pregnant?
The safety of riluzole during pregnancy is not well-established. Limited data is available, and animal studies have shown potential risks. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your condition. Your doctor can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.
Does riluzole have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of riluzole include nausea, weakness, and dizziness. These effects are usually mild. Serious adverse effects, like liver damage, are rare but require immediate medical attention. Always inform your doctor about any new or worsening symptoms while taking riluzole.
Does riluzole have any safety warnings?
Riluzole has important safety warnings. It can cause liver damage, so regular liver function tests are necessary. Signs of liver problems include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe fatigue. If you experience these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Riluzole can also cause lung problems, so report any new or worsening breathing issues.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking riluzole?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking riluzole. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage, which is a serious side effect of riluzole. Drinking alcohol may also worsen side effects like dizziness or fatigue. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking riluzole to get personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking riluzole?
You can exercise while taking riluzole, but be cautious. Riluzole can cause dizziness or fatigue, which might affect your exercise capacity. To exercise safely, start with light activities and gradually increase intensity. If you feel dizzy or unusually tired, slow down or stop exercising and rest. Consult your doctor if you have concerns.
Is it safe to stop riluzole?
Riluzole is usually used for long-term management of conditions like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Stopping riluzole suddenly may worsen your condition. Always talk with your doctor before stopping riluzole. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control.
Is riluzole addictive?
Riluzole is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Riluzole works by affecting the brain's neurotransmitters, but it doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to take more than prescribed.
Is riluzole safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals may be more vulnerable to the side effects of riluzole, such as liver damage and dizziness. Regular monitoring of liver function is important. The elderly may also experience more pronounced fatigue. It's crucial to follow your doctor's advice and report any new or worsening symptoms while taking riluzole.
What are the most common side effects of riluzole?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of riluzole include nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. These effects vary from person to person and are usually mild. If you notice new symptoms after starting riluzole, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking riluzole?
Riluzole should not be used by people with a known allergy to it or its ingredients. It is also contraindicated in individuals with severe liver disease, as it can cause liver damage. Caution is needed in patients with kidney problems. Always consult your doctor about these concerns before starting riluzole.
