Edaravone (Daiichi Sankyo) vs Rilutek (riluzole)
Edaravone (Daiichi Sankyo) vs Rilutek (riluzole)
Edaravone, marketed by Daiichi Sankyo, is an antioxidant medication that has been approved for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and is believed to slow the decline in physical function by trapping free radicals. Riluzole, sold under the brand name Rilutek among others, is an older medication also used to treat ALS, which works by decreasing the release of glutamate, a neurotransmitter that can cause nerve damage at high levels. When deciding between the two, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to consider factors such as the stage of ALS, potential side effects, method of administration (Edaravone is administered intravenously, while Riluzole is taken orally), and individual patient response to treatment.
Difference between Edaravone and Rilutek
Metric | Edaravone (Daiichi Sankyo) | Rilutek (riluzole) |
---|---|---|
Generic name | Edaravone | Riluzole |
Indications | Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) | Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) |
Mechanism of action | Free radical scavenger | Glutamate antagonist |
Brand names | Radicava, Radicut | Rilutek, Teglutik |
Administrative route | Intravenous | Oral |
Side effects | Headache, gait disturbance, bruising | Dizziness, gastrointestinal disturbances, liver function alterations |
Contraindications | Hypersensitivity to edaravone or any excipients | Hypersensitivity to riluzole or any component of the formulation |
Drug class | Neuroprotective agent | Antiglutamate agent |
Manufacturer | Daiichi Sankyo | Sanofi-Aventis |
Efficacy
Edaravone (Daiichi Sankyo) and Its Efficacy in ALS
Edaravone, marketed by Daiichi Sankyo, is a medication that has been approved for the treatment of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease. The efficacy of Edaravone in the treatment of ALS is based on its antioxidant properties, which are believed to help neutralize free radicals, potentially slowing the oxidative stress that contributes to the neuronal cell death characteristic of the condition. Clinical trials have demonstrated that Edaravone can modestly slow the decline of physical function in patients with ALS, particularly when started in the early stages of the disease.
The pivotal trial leading to Edaravone's approval showed a smaller decline in the ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R) score in patients treated with Edaravone compared to those receiving a placebo. However, it is important to note that the benefits observed were modest, and not all patients may respond to the treatment. The specific subpopulation of ALS patients that might benefit the most from Edaravone therapy is still under investigation, and the medication is generally considered as one part of a multifaceted approach to managing ALS.
Riluzole (Rilutek) and Its Efficacy in ALS
Riluzole, sold under the brand name Rilutek among others, is another medication that has been approved for the treatment of ALS. Riluzole's mechanism of action is believed to involve the inhibition of glutamate release, which in excess can be toxic to nerve cells. By modulating glutamatergic signaling, Riluzole may help to protect neurons from the excitotoxicity thought to play a role in ALS progression.
Studies on Riluzole have shown that it can extend survival in people with ALS by several months, and it may also delay the need for mechanical ventilation. The efficacy of Riluzole in improving functional measures such as muscle strength and lung function is less clear, with some studies showing minimal to no effect on these outcomes. Despite this, Riluzole remains one of the few treatments that have been shown to have a positive impact on survival in ALS and is commonly prescribed as part of the standard care for patients with this condition.
Regulatory Agency Approvals
Edaravone
Rilutek
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