Riluzole
Nursing pharmacology study reference (NCLEX-style monograph). Numeric values are standard teaching ranges for study and must be verified against current manufacturer labeling before clinical use. This is educational content, not prescribing guidance.
Riluzole (brand name Rilutek) — ALS agent; Glutamate inhibitor.
Identification
- Therapeutic class: ALS agent.
- Pharmacologic class: Glutamate inhibitor.
Pharmacology
- Mechanism of action: Reduces glutamate activity to slow motor neuron degeneration.
- Onset / peak / duration: Slows progression; not a symptom reliever.
- Half-life / therapeutic level: Half-life about 12 hours; level not routine.
Clinical use
- Indications: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
- Usual dose, route, frequency: 50 mg PO every 12 hours on an empty stomach.
- Maximum dose / adjustments: Avoid in hepatic impairment.
Safety
- Contraindications: Significant hepatic disease.
- Black box warning: None.
- Interactions: CYP1A2 inhibitors (raise levels) and inducers, smoking (lowers levels), hepatotoxic drugs.
- Pregnancy / lactation: Not recommended.
- High-alert: No.
Adverse effects
- Common side effects: Nausea, dizziness, fatigue.
- Serious effects to report: Hepatotoxicity, neutropenia, interstitial lung disease.
- Antidote / reversal: None.
Nursing process
- Assessment before administration: LFTs, CBC, respiratory baseline.
- Interventions during therapy: Monitor liver function regularly.
- Monitor: LFTs, CBC, respiratory status.
- Evaluation / expected outcome: Slowed disease progression.
Patient teaching
- Patient teaching: Take on an empty stomach; report yellowing or fever.
- Notify provider if: Jaundice, fever, cough or breathlessness.
- Administration tips: Empty stomach, 12 hours apart.