Riluzole belongs to the derivative of benzothiazole with neuroprotective, potential anti-depressant and anxiolytic activities, which is used in the treatment of a certain type of nerve disease called amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease). It is effective to delay the onset of ventilator-dependence or tracheostomy in selected patients, slow down the deterioration of this disease and probably prolong survival by approximately two to three months. Besides, studies have proved that riluzole has anti-depressant activity for refractory depression and serves as an anxiolytic in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder.
However, riluzole does not cure the ALS and reverse nerve damage or muscle weakness. It is believed to function as an inhibitor of a natural substance called glutamate. It helps protect the nerves in the brain and spinal cord from too much of glutamate which may contribute to the nerve damage. Riluzole is available in both tablet and liquid form. The liquid formulation may be more suitable for patients with swallowing difficulties.
