riluzole, a glutamate antagonist. ▪ INDICATIONS: This drug is used to treat amyotropic lateral sclerosis. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Neutropenia and exfoliative dermatitis are life-threatening effects. Other adverse effects are nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, anorexia, diarrhea, flatulence, stomatitis, dry mouth, hypertonia, depression, dizziness, insomnia, somnolence, vertigo, pruritus, eczema, alopecia, decreased lung function, rhinitis, increased cough, hypertension, tachycardia, phlebitis, palpitations, postural hypertension, urinary tract infection, and dysuria.
