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riluzole - oral, Rilutek

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GENERIC NAME: RILUZOLE - ORAL (RYE-luzz-ohl)

BRAND NAME(S): Rilutek

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to treat a certain type of nerve disease called amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, also commonly called Lou Gehrig's disease). Riluzole helps to slow down the worsening of this disease and prolong survival. However, it is not a cure for ALS, and it does not reverse nerve damage or muscle weakness. Riluzole is thought to work by protecting the nerves in the brain and spinal cord from too much of a natural substance called glutamate that may be part of the cause of nerve damage.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually every 12 hours on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal or as directed by your doctor.Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than prescribed. There is no increased benefit with higher doses, but the risk of side effects is greater.Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day in the morning and evening.Inform your doctor if your condition worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach pain, or numbness/tingling around the mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: signs of infection (e.g., fever, chills, cough, persistent sore throat).Seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but very serious signs of liver problems occur: yellowing eyes/skin, persistent nausea/vomiting, severe stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.