Riluzole
Generic Name
Riluzole
Manufacturer
Various
Country
Global
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| riluzol 50 mg tablet | ৳ 150.00 | ৳ 1,500.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Riluzole is a medication used to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. It helps to slow the progression of the disease and prolong survival in patients.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
50 mg orally twice daily, taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is required in elderly patients, but caution is advised due to potential age-related decrease in renal or hepatic function.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution in patients with renal impairment. No specific dosing recommendations are available, but close monitoring is advised.
How to Take
Take the tablet orally, swallow whole with water. It is recommended to take Riluzole at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal to maximize absorption.
Mechanism of Action
The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it is believed to exert its neuroprotective effects by inhibiting glutamate release, inactivating voltage-dependent sodium channels, and interfering with intracellular events that follow transmitter binding at excitatory amino acid receptors.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical effects in ALS are observed over months, as the drug works to slow disease progression.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in the urine (about 90% as metabolites) and a small amount in feces.
Half life
Approximately 9-15 hours after repeated doses.
Absorption
Well absorbed after oral administration, with approximately 90% absorbed. Absolute bioavailability is approximately 50%. Peak plasma concentration (Tmax) is reached within 0.5-1.5 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized by the liver, primarily by cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) and subsequent glucuronidation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Hypersensitivity to riluzole or any component of the formulation.
- •Patients with pre-existing liver disease or baseline transaminase levels > 5 times the upper limit of normal.
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Concurrent use may increase the risk of liver damage.
CYP1A2 Inhibitors (e.g., caffeine, ciprofloxacin, fluvoxamine)
May increase riluzole levels, requiring careful monitoring.
CYP1A2 Inducers (e.g., omeprazole, rifampicin, charcoal-broiled foods)
May decrease riluzole levels, potentially reducing efficacy.
Storage
Store at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F), away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In cases of overdose, patients may experience neurological, psychiatric, and hepatic symptoms. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive, including general supportive measures and monitoring of vital signs.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Riluzole should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known whether riluzole is excreted in human milk, so caution is advised in nursing mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2 to 3 years from the date of manufacture, specific to the product.
Availability
Pharmacies
Approval Status
FDA approved
Patent Status
Generic available
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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