Riluzole vs. Rilutek for ALS: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Exservan

(riluzole)

Riluzole

(Rilutek)

Summary for Riluzole

Prescription only

Exservan (riluzole oral film) is a reformulated version of Rilutek (riluzole oral tablet), a medication for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Exservan is an oral film that dissolves in the mouth. Exservan (riluzole) is FDA-approved but is not yet available in the United States.

Pros and Cons for Riluzole

Pros

Cons

Summary for Rilutek

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.

Indications for Rilutek

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

Pros and Cons for Rilutek

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

Common Side Effects for Rilutek

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%)

Warnings for Rilutek

Liver injury and damage
Low white blood cell count
Lung disease

Prices with our coupons for Riluzole vs. Rilutek

Exservan1 carton / 60 pouches of 50mg

Get free coupons

More Information

Riluzole60 tablets / 50mg

$30.55$1,114.77

Get free coupons

More Information

Compare other ALS drugs

Exservan vs. Radicava Exservan vs. Rilutek

Browse medications by letter

Show All

Browse prescription and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.

Compare
Riluzole vs. Rilutek

Exservan

Riluzole

Summary for Riluzole

Pros and Cons for Riluzole

Pros

Cons

Summary for Rilutek

Indications for Rilutek

Pros and Cons for Rilutek

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Rilutek

Warnings for Rilutek

Prices with our coupons for Riluzole vs. Rilutek

Compare other ALS drugs

Browse medications by letter

Good news for your inbox

Exservan

Riluzole

Summary for Riluzole

Pros and Cons for Riluzole

Pros

Cons

Summary for Rilutek

Indications for Rilutek

Pros and Cons for Rilutek

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Rilutek

Warnings for Rilutek