Riluzol
Generic Name
Riluzol 5 mg Suspension
Manufacturer
ITF Pharma (e.g., Exservan)
Country
USA (for brand Exservan), varies for generics
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| riluzol 5 mg suspension | ৳ 3,000.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Riluzole is an oral medication used to slow the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. It belongs to a class of drugs called benzothiazoles and is thought to exert its effect by inhibiting glutamate release, an excitatory neurotransmitter.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
50 mg (10 mL of 5 mg/mL suspension) taken twice daily, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment required, but use with caution due to potential decreased renal/hepatic function.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Dosage reduction may be considered for severe impairment. Not recommended in end-stage renal disease.
How to Take
Shake the suspension gently before use. Administer orally. Take at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal to avoid food interaction affecting absorption.
Mechanism of Action
Riluzole's precise mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it is believed to inhibit glutamate release, inactivate voltage-dependent sodium channels, and interfere with intracellular events that follow neurotransmitter binding.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Not for immediate symptomatic relief; effects on disease progression are gradual, observed over months.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in urine as metabolites, with a small amount in feces.
Half life
Approximately 9-15 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration; bioavailability is about 90%. Food decreases absorption and bioavailability.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized by the liver, primarily by cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) and glucuronidation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Hypersensitivity to riluzole or any component of the formulation
- •Pre-existing hepatic disease or transaminases >3 times upper limit of normal
Drug Interactions
CYP1A2 Inhibitors (e.g., ciprofloxacin, fluvoxamine)
May increase riluzole levels, requiring dose adjustment.
CYP1A2 Inducers (e.g., rifampicin, omeprazole, cigarette smoke)
May decrease riluzole levels, reducing efficacy.
Storage
Store at room temperature (20-25°C) before opening. After opening, store refrigerated (2-8°C) and discard after 15 days. Protect from light.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include acute encephalopathy, coma, and methemoglobinemia. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; there is no specific antidote. Hemodialysis is unlikely to be effective.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown if riluzole is excreted in human milk; avoid during breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Usually 24 months for unopened bottle, 15 days after opening (refrigerated).
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by FDA
Patent Status
Generic available
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
More Medicines
Explore other medicines you might be interested in
