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Riluzole (Rilutek)
📌 Patients aged >75 years were not included in the original Riluzole trials. ⚠️ Trials did not measure quality of life or survival beyond 18 months. Always interpret trial evidence with caution in older populations.
💊 About: Always check the BNF link here
- ✅ Used in Motor Neurone Disease (ALS) — approved by NICE.
- ⚖️ Not prescribed in every case of MND (specialist decision).
- 🚫 Often not used in Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS), which progresses more slowly.
⚙️ Mode of Action
- 🧪 Blocks tetrodotoxin-sensitive sodium channels.
- ⬇️ Reduces glutamate release → limits excitotoxicity on motor neurons.
📋 Indication & Dose
- ALS (severe): Riluzole 50 mg BD, taken before meals to reduce nausea.
- 💷 Annual cost in UK ≈ £3,718 (NICE-approved, prescribed under specialist advice).
⚠️ Contraindications
- 🚫 Liver disease / abnormal LFTs.
🤝 Interactions
- 📖 See BNF for up-to-date details.
💥 Side Effects
- 🧪 Liver toxicity → check LFTs every 3 months.
- 🤢 Nausea, vomiting, weakness, somnolence, tachycardia.
- 🤕 Headache, dizziness, vertigo, pain, paraesthesia.
- 🧾 Neutropenia → stop drug immediately.
📚 References
| The content on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only to support exam preparation (e.g., MLA, MRCP, USMLE) and learning. This is NOT medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or professional guidance. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional, official guidelines (e.g., NICE, GMC, BNF), or supervised clinical practice. Always verify information with current, authoritative sources. Makindo and its contributors accept no liability for any reliance on this content, including errors, omissions, or any resulting harm, loss, or consequences. By using this site, you agree to these terms. |
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