Rulitek 50mg Tablet (Riluzole) – Detailed Product Description

Generic Name: Riluzole
Brand Name: Rulitek
Strength: 50mg
Dosage Form: Oral Tablet
Manufacturer: Sanofi
Therapeutic Class: Neurological Agents
Indication: Treatment of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Overview:

Rulitek 50mg Tablet contains Riluzole, a neuroprotective agent primarily prescribed for the treatment of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, and ultimately respiratory failure.

Rulitek is not a cure for ALS, but it has been clinically shown to modestly prolong survival and delay the need for tracheostomy or ventilatory support in patients. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting the release of glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter that is thought to contribute to nerve cell damage in ALS.

Key Benefits:

• Slows the progression of ALS

• Delays the need for ventilatory support

• May extend survival in patients with ALS

• Oral tablet for convenient daily administration

Mechanism of Action of Rulitek 50mg Tablet:

Riluzole works by inhibiting glutamate release and blocking some sodium channels, helping to protect motor neurons from excitotoxic damage. By reducing glutamate-mediated toxicity, it can delay the progression of neuronal degeneration in ALS.

Indications:

• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): Used to extend survival or delay the onset of ventilator dependence.

Dosage & Administration:

• Recommended Dose: One 50mg tablet twice daily (every 12 hours).

• Should be taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals for optimal absorption.

• Always follow your doctor’s instructions for dosage and duration.

Side Effects:

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea

• Fatigue

• Dizziness

• Decreased lung function

• Abdominal pain

• Headache

Serious but less common side effects include:

• Elevated liver enzymes

• Neutropenia (low white blood cell count)

• Interstitial lung disease

Regular liver function tests and blood counts are recommended during treatment.

Precautions & Warnings:

• Liver Impairment: Use with caution. Regular monitoring of liver enzymes is essential.

• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Not recommended unless clearly needed. Consult your doctor.

• Children: Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients have not been established.

• Driving/Operating Machinery: May cause dizziness or fatigue. Use caution.

Drug Interactions:

Rulitek may interact with:

• CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., ciprofloxacin, fluvoxamine)

• CYP1A2 inducers (e.g., omeprazole, rifampicin)

• Theophylline

• Caffeine

• Alcohol (increased risk of liver damage)

Always inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Storage Instructions:

• Store at room temperature (15°C to 30°C)

• Keep away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight

• Keep out of reach of children

FAQs:

Q: Is Rulitek a cure for ALS?
A: No, Rulitek is not a cure. It is used to slow disease progression and extend survival in ALS patients.

Q: Can I stop taking Rulitek if I feel better?
A: No. ALS is a progressive disease, and stopping the medication without consulting your doctor may worsen your condition.

Q: How long can Rulitek prolong survival?
A: Studies show Riluzole may extend survival by 2–3 months on average, particularly in early stages of ALS.

Disclaimer:

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication.