Compare Rilutek vs. Radicava
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Riluzole (Rilutek) and edaravone (Radicava) are both medications used to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a condition that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. While they share this indication, they differ in several ways. Riluzole is a glutamate antagonist that helps slow the progression of ALS by reducing glutamate levels, and it is available in tablet, liquid, and oral film forms. Edaravone, on the other hand, is thought to have antioxidant properties and is available as an intravenous infusion or oral suspension. Riluzole is typically taken twice a day, while edaravone follows a more complex dosing schedule with cycles of daily doses followed by breaks. Riluzole is available as a lower-cost generic for the tablet form, whereas edaravone is only available as a brand-name medication, which can be expensive. Common side effects of riluzole include mouth numbness and nausea, while edaravone can cause headaches and skin irritation. Additionally, edaravone carries a risk of severe allergic reactions, especially in those with sulfite allergies.
- Riluzole (Rilutek)Radicava (edaravone)
- Riluzole (Rilutek)Radicava (edaravone)
Summary of Rilutek vs. Radicava
Summary for Glutamate antagonistPrescription onlyRiluzole (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 agentPrescription onlyRadicava (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 diseaseIndications for•Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)Pros and Cons of Rilutek vs. Radicava
Pros and Const for Glutamate antagonistPros•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 tabletCons•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 mouthPros and Const for ALS agentPros•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 stomachCommon Side Effects of Rilutek vs. Radicava
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 diseaseCommon Side Effects for•Severe allergic reactionsPrices with our coupons for Rilutek vs. Radicava
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