Riluzole (Systemic)

Brand Names : Rilutek

Side Effects of This Medicine

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Diarrhea; nausea; vomiting; worsening of some symptoms of ALS, including spasticity and tiredness or weakness

Less common

Difficulty in breathing; increased cough; pneumonia

Rare

Bloody or cloudy urine, frequent urge to urinate, or painful or difficult urination; convulsions (seizures); fast or pounding heartbeat; fever, chills, or continuing sores in mouth; hypertension (high blood pressure); increased thirst, irregular heartbeat, mood or mental changes, or muscle cramps, pain, or weakness; lack of coordination; lack of energy; mental depression; pain, tenderness, bluish color, or swelling of foot or leg; redness, scaling, or peeling of the skin; swelling of eyelids, mouth, lips, tongue, and/or throat; swelling of face; trouble in swallowing; yellow eyes or skin

Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

More common

Abdominal pain or gas; dizziness; drowsiness; loss of appetite; numbness or tingling around the mouth

Less common

Back or muscle pain or stiffness; constipation; general feeling of discomfort or illness; hair loss; headache; irritation or soreness of mouth; runny nose; skin rash or itching; trouble in sleeping

This medicine may also cause the following side effect that your doctor will watch for:

More common

Liver problems

Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.