What is ALS?

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While it is not a cure, RILUTEK is the first and only FDA-approved treatment for people with ALS. Neurologists and other doctors in the U.S. have used it for more than 13 years.

If you have ALS, RILUTEK can give you more time. This extra time may offer you and your loved ones the chance to adjust to the news and prepare for the future, while still being able to plan events and activities with those who matter most to you.

In medical studies, people who took RILUTEK lived an average of 2-3 months longer than people who took a placebo (sugar pill). However, after 18 months of treatment, there was no difference between those who took RILUTEK and those who took a placebo. What this means is that, in clinical trials, RILUTEK offered a survival benefit early in ALS treatment.

For those people who took RILUTEK, compared to those who took a sugar pill, there was a longer time between starting treatment and the need for a tracheostomy. This surgical procedure creates an opening in a patient’s windpipe to allow access to a machine to help with breathing. People with ALS usually get this procedure as their disease progresses.

How RILUTEK may work in the body

No one knows exactly how ALS affects the body. Research is helping to improve our understanding. The following may be one explanation.

The human body naturally produces a chemical called glutamate. This chemical helps control the motor neurons—the messengers that go from the brain to the muscle. In ALS, glutamate may build up to very high levels. Too much exposure to glutamate may injure or "burn out" nerve cells so they cannot work.

RILUTEK may protect nerve cells from exposure to too much glutamate by decreasing the release of glutamate in the body.

How RILUTEK may work for you

There may be benefits to starting RILUTEK treatment as soon as possible. You may not notice an improvement in your condition while taking RILUTEK, however clinical studies have shown that people who took RILUTEK lived for a longer time or had a longer time before needing a tracheostomy.

To ensure that you are receiving the full benefit of treatment, take RILUTEK exactly as your doctor tells you to. Please talk to him or her if you have any questions or concerns about your treatment.


Important to know

  • RILUTEK is available by prescription only
  • RILUTEK tablets are white, film coated and capsule shaped
  • The usual daily dose is one 50-mg tablet every 12 hours
  • The active ingredient in RILUTEK is called riluzole (pronounced rill-you-zole)

RILUTEK Care™ Card Program

Call 1-866-827-4999 to learn how you can save up to $100 on your RILUTEK prescription

Rilutek is indicated for the treatment of patients with ALS*

* amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Important Safety Information

  • You should not take Rilutek if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

  • Call your doctor if you have a fever, cough, or difficulty in breathing while taking Rilutek.

  • Rilutek may cause you to feel dizzy, light-headed, or sleepy. If you experience any of these, you should NOT drive a vehicle or use machinery.

  • If you miss or skip a dose of Rilutek, do not take any extra tablets to make up for those you missed, but take your prescribed dose at the next regularly scheduled time.

  • When taking Rilutek, avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol; alcohol may contribute to compromising liver function and may be associated with an increased risk of liver problems.

  • The most common side effects of Rilutek are weakness, nausea, lung function decrease*, a mild liver disorder that is typically temporary, runny nose and headache. If any side effects become troublesome, contact your doctor.

  • Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription products and vitamins. If you have questions, please talk to your doctor.

Please refer to the full prescribing information using the link at the top of the page.

*Not associated with a reduction in vital capacity

The health information contained herein is provided for general educational purposes only. Your healthcare professional is the single best source of information regarding your health.
Please consult your healthcare professional if you have any questions about your health or treatment.


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