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Compare Rilutek vs. Radicava

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

  • Riluzole (Rilutek)
    Radicava (edaravone)
  • Riluzole (Rilutek)
    Radicava (edaravone)

  • Summary of Rilutek vs. Radicava

    Summary for Glutamate antagonist
    Prescription only

    Riluzole (Rilutek) helps slow down worsening of symptoms in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. It doesn't improve symptoms, but people taking the medication may be able to slow their need for a breathing tube and live about 2 to 3 months longer. It also comes as a liquid and oral film for people who have trouble swallowing pills.

    Summary for ALS agent
    Prescription only

    Radicava (edaravone) is one of only a few available treatment options for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). It's either given as a liquid suspension taken by mouth or as an injection into your veins. It's available as a brand-name medication only, which can be expensive.

  • Indications of Rilutek vs. Radicava

    Indications for
    •Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease
    Indications for
    •Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

  • Pros and Cons of Rilutek vs. Radicava

    Pros and Const for Glutamate antagonist
    Pros
    •One of two FDA-approved medications that slow progression of ALS
    •May prolong life by two to three months
    •May delay the need for a breathing tube
    •Available in a liquid form and oral film for people who have trouble swallowing pills
    •Lower-cost generic available for the tablet
    Cons
    •Doesn't improve ALS symptoms
    •Doesn't improve muscle strength or nerve function
    •No lower-cost generic available for the liquid form
    •Not available as an IV infusion or injection for those who cannot take medication by mouth
    Pros and Const for ALS agent
    Pros
    •Works well to treat ALS and slow the decline of physical function
    •Can be used in adults 65 years of age and older
    •Can be taken with riluzole (Rilutek)
    •Oral suspension can be taken at home (may be possible with IV in some cases)
    Cons
    •Brand name only, which can be expensive
    •Needs to be taken lifelong, as long as it's helping with symptoms
    •Might be hard to tell if it's working since it slows the progression of ALS
    •Oral suspension must be taken on an empty stomach

  • Common Side Effects of Rilutek vs. Radicava

    Common Side Effects for
    •Mouth numbness (29% for the liquid form, 38% for the oral film)
    •Body weakness or lack of energy (19%)
    •Nausea (16%)
    •Breathing problems (shortness of breath, wheezing, inability to catch your breath, 10%)
    •Stomach pain (5%)
    •Higher blood pressure (5%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Bruise at injection site (15%)
    •Abnormal walking (13%)
    •Headache (10%)
    •Skin irritation (8%)
    •Red and itchy skin (7%)
    •Breathing problems (6%)

    ^*Side effects reported with IV infusion. Side effects for the oral suspension might differ.^

  • Warnings of Rilutek vs. Radicava

    Common Side Effects for
    •Liver injury and damage
    •Low white blood cell count
    •Lung disease
    Common Side Effects for
    •Severe allergic reactions

  • Prices with our coupons for Rilutek vs. Radicava

    Learn more about Riluzole
    Learn more about Radicava

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