Rilutek (Riluzole)

Do’s

• Take Rilutek exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, typically twice a day on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal).
• If using the liquid form, shake the bottle well for 30 seconds before measuring your dose.
• Use the provided measuring spoon or device for accurate dosing (not a household spoon).
• Take Rilutek consistently at the same times each day for the best results.

Don'ts

• Don't take more Rilutek than prescribed by your healthcare provider. Increasing the dose won't improve your condition faster and might lead to side effects.
• Don't take Rilutek with food. It needs to be taken on an empty stomach for proper absorption.
• Don't use a household spoon to measure the liquid medication.
• Don't stop taking Rilutek without consulting your healthcare provider, even if you feel well.

Common side effects:

• Asthenia (weakness)
• Nausea
• Increased serum alanine aminotransferase
• Vomiting
• Increased blood pressure
• Numbness or tingling around the mouth
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Stomach pain
• Breathing problems

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Liver problems: nausea, loss of appetite, stomach pain (upper right side), tiredness, itching, dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Serious allergic reactions: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing
• Serious eye symptoms: sudden vision loss, blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights
• Neutropenia (low levels of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell)

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Rilutek,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies you have, especially to riluzole or any ingredients in the medication.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of liver disease before using riluzole.

Riluzole may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until you know how it affects you. Limit alcohol and discuss marijuana use with your healthcare provider as they can worsen these effects.

If you have diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any condition requiring you to limit sugar or aspartame intake, talk to your healthcare provider about using riluzole (especially liquid forms).

Before any surgery, inform your healthcare provider about all medications you use, including riluzole.

Riluzole may harm an unborn baby. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before using it if you are pregnant. It is unknown if riluzole passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.