Why is this medication prescribed?

Tiglutik is a prescription medication primarily used to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, and ultimately respiratory failure.

Tiglutik contains the active ingredient riluzole, which is thought to work by reducing the release of glutamate, a neurotransmitter that can be toxic to nerve cells in high amounts.

The medication is typically prescribed to slow down the progression of ALS and prolong survival. It may also help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with the disease, although it does not cure ALS.

How should this medicine be used?

Tiglutik is administered orally as a liquid suspension using an oral syringe. The recommended dosage is usually 50 mg taken twice daily, approximately every 12 hours. It should be taken consistently with or without food.

Here’s how Tiglutik should be used:

• Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the medication is properly mixed.
• Measure the prescribed dose using the provided oral syringe.
• Administer the dose directly into the mouth or into a small glass of water.
• Rinse the syringe with water after each use and allow it to air dry.
• Store Tiglutik at room temperature away from light and moisture.

It’s essential to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider and to not exceed the recommended dose without consulting them first. Additionally, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider of any other medications or supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Tiglutik, it’s best to consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

Tiglutik is primarily used for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and is not typically prescribed for other conditions. It works by reducing the release of glutamate, a neurotransmitter that can be toxic to nerve cells, thereby slowing down the progression of ALS.

What special precautions should I follow?

As with any medication, there are specific precautions to consider when taking Tiglutik:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to riluzole or any other ingredients in Tiglutik.
• Medical History: Before starting Tiglutik, disclose your complete medical history, including any liver disease or kidney problems, as well as any history of alcohol abuse.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It’s essential to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as the safety of Tiglutik during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established.
• Interactions: Tiglutik may interact with other medications, including certain antidepressants, antibiotics, and antifungal medications. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Liver Function: Tiglutik can affect liver function, so regular monitoring of liver enzymes may be necessary during treatment. If you experience symptoms of liver problems, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, abdominal pain, or persistent nausea and vomiting, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• Kidney Function: Tiglutik may also affect kidney function, so it’s essential to monitor kidney function regularly during treatment.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Tiglutik, as alcohol consumption may increase the risk of liver damage.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Tiglutik may cause dizziness or drowsiness, which can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Exercise caution until you know how Tiglutik affects you.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance when taking Tiglutik, and report any side effects or concerns promptly. Do not stop taking Tiglutik or change your dosage without consulting your doctor.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions for Tiglutik, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with this medication. However, it’s generally recommended to take Tiglutik consistently with or without food. If you have any concerns about diet and Tiglutik, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Tiglutik, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one. If you have questions about missed doses or need further guidance, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Tiglutik, like any medication, can cause side effects. Some common side effects of Tiglutik may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep (insomnia)
• Changes in taste

These side effects are usually mild and may lessen over time as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider.

In addition to the common side effects listed above, Tiglutik may also cause more severe side effects that require immediate medical attention. These can include:

• Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Liver problems, which may manifest as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, abdominal pain, or persistent nausea and vomiting.
• Signs of a low white blood cell count, such as fever, sore throat, or unusual tiredness.

It’s important to report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. They can help assess whether the side effect is related to Tiglutik and provide guidance on next steps.

Additionally, this is not an exhaustive list of side effects, so if you experience any other symptoms while taking Tiglutik, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Here’s what you should know about the storage and disposal of Tiglutik:

• Storage: Store Tiglutik at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Avoid storing it in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink, where it may be exposed to moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of Tiglutik properly according to local regulations or as instructed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for guidance on how to safely dispose of unused medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of Tiglutik, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 (in the United States). Symptoms of an overdose may include severe dizziness, fainting, difficulty breathing, or seizures. Be prepared to provide information about the medication you took, the amount ingested, and any symptoms you are experiencing.

What other information should I know?

• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose of Tiglutik, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
• Follow-up Appointments: Keep all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider while taking Tiglutik. Your doctor may need to monitor your liver function, kidney function, and overall health regularly.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking, as Tiglutik may interact with other drugs.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Tiglutik, as it may increase the risk of liver damage.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Tiglutik may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Use caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how Tiglutik affects you.
• Allergic Reactions: If you experience signs of an allergic reaction to Tiglutik, such as rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance when taking Tiglutik, and report any side effects or concerns promptly. Do not stop taking Tiglutik or change your dosage without consulting your doctor.