Assistive Devices/Communication Aids

The companies listed below produce communication aids for people with ALS and other disabilities. These include various types of assistive technology for speech, electronic voice systems, eye communication, typing machines, and other interactive tools.

Speech & Voice

Communication Independence for the Neurologically Impaired (CINI) www.cini.org
E-triloquist www.etriloquist.com
Professional Geeks www.ProfessionalGeeks.com
Gus Communications www.gusinc.com

Eye Communication

LC Technologies, Inc. www.lctinc.com
EyeTech Digital Systems www.eyetechds.com

Typing Machine

Zygo Industries www.zygo-usa.com

Other Assistive Technologies

Rehab Tool, LLC www.rehabtool.com
AT&T National Special Needs Center
2001 Route 46
Parisppany, NJ 07054-1315
Phone: (800) 233-1222
TDD: (800) 833-3232
Crestwood Communication Aids, Inc.
P.O. Box 090107
Milwaukee, WI 53209-0107
Phone: (414) 352-5678
Fax: (414) 352-5679
www.communicationaids.com

Interactive Tools

National Rehabilitation Information Center (NARIC)
8201 Corporate Drive, Suite 600
Landover, MD 20785
Phone: (800) 346-2742 or (301) 459-5900 (local)
TTY: (301) 459-5984
www.naric.com
naricinfo@heitechservices.com

NARIC provides interactive information for individuals coping with disability. Its information specialists are available to answer questions and provide ALS patients with "custom bibliographies" that list articles, books, and relevant literature suited to their specific needs. Articles are usually nontechnical in nature—focusing on quality-of-life issues, work challenges, recreation, and family life—and are selected from NARIC's large database of more than 200 journals and magazines.

NARIC also provides information and referral. Callers are put in touch with local support groups and gain practical information on living and traveling with a disability. A provided Self-Help Source Book lists organizations that can assist with disability-related challenges.

One specialized service offered by NARIC is ABLEDATA, a database of more than 22,000 products for people with disabilities. ABLEDATA can be utilized either over the phone with the assistance of an information specialist (see telephone numbers above) or via personal computer.

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 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.