RILUTEK (pronounced rill-you-tek) has been used by doctors as a treatment for ALS for more than 14 years.
It is the first and only FDA-approved medicine for people with ALS. Although the mechanism for RILUTEK is unknown, RILUTEK may protect nerve cells from exposure to too much glutamate by preventing glutamate from spreading in the body. It has also been shown that the benefits of RILUTEK are seen early in treatment. No one knows exactly what causes ALS. 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" the nerve cells so they cannot work.
Important Safety Information
- You should not take RILUTEK if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.
- Your doctor should do blood tests to check your liver function before and during your treatment. 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 that occurred during medical studies were weakness, nausea, lung function decrease (not associated with a reduction in vital capacity), headache, nasal symptoms, muscle tightness, abdominal pain, and high blood pressure. 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.
Indication
RILUTEK (riluzole) is indicated for the treatment of patients with amyotrophic lateral
sclerosis (ALS).
RILUTEK extends survival and/or time to invasive breathing assistance.
Important Safety Information
- You should not take RILUTEK if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.
- Your doctor should do blood tests to check your liver function before and during your treatment. 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 that occurred during medical studies were weakness, nausea, lung function decrease (not associated with a reduction in vital capacity), headache, nasal symptoms, muscle tightness, abdominal pain, and high blood pressure. 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 click here for Full Prescribing Information.
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.
