ALS Medication: New Formulation Approved

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new formulation of riluzole, an ALS medication.

This new medication can be found under the names Exservan (brand) and riluzole (active ingredient).

Riluzole was initially approved in 1995 as a treatment for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). It was available in tablet form. In 2018, an oral suspension formulation was approved.

Now, this medication is available as an oral film.

The film is simply placed on the on top of the tongue, where it will dissolve. This medication does not require extra liquids, such as water, to wash it down.

This formulation gives those with ALS and those who have trouble swallowing a new treatment option, according to the drug manufacturer.

This medication is taken twice daily (at least one hour before or two hours after a meal).

Common side effects of Exservan may include nausea, high blood pressure and stomach pain.

Speak with your health care provider if you have any questions.

This new approval was granted to Aquestive Therapeutics.

Written by Anyssa Garza, PharmD, BCMAS