MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

Detailed explanation-1: -Riluzole is used to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS; Lou Gehrig’s disease). Riluzole is in a class of medications called benzothiazoles. It works by changing the activity of certain natural substances in the body that affect nerves and muscles.

Detailed explanation-2: -Although there is no known cure for ALS, the drug riluzole has been approved for treatment and may slow progression of the disease. It is expensive, however, and appears modestly effective. Generally, treatment is designed to help control symptoms. Drugs such as baclofen or diazepam may help control spasticity.

Detailed explanation-3: -Riluzole, a glutamatergic antagonist, is the only disease-modifying treatment shown to extend life in patients with ALS, associated with a 38·6% reduction in mortality in an efficacy trial9 and a 35% improvement in survival with the 100 mg dose in a dose-ranging trial.

Detailed explanation-4: -In clinical trials, riluzole appears to prolong life in the early stages of ALS, whereas edaravone appears to only slow symptom progression. Making a decision between these two medications involves considering how each one exerts its effects as well as the efficacy of each one in clinical trials.