NCIt definition : A benzothiazole derivative with neuroprotective and potential anti-depressant and
anxiolytic activities. While the mechanism of action of riluzole is unknown, its pharmacological
activities in motor neurons include the following, some of which may be related to
its effect: 1) an inhibitory effect on glutamate release, 2) inactivation of voltage-dependent
sodium channels, and 3) interference with intracellular events that follow transmitter
binding at excitatory amino acid receptors. In animal models, this agent has been
shown to exhibit myorelaxant and sedative activities, apparently due to the blockade
of glutamatergic neurotransmission.;
Alternative definition : NCI-GLOSS: A drug used to treat a nerve disease called amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
(ALS). It is also being studied in the treatment of melanoma (a type of skin cancer).
Riluzole blocks the release of a substance that melanoma cells need to grow. It is
a type of glutamate release inhibitor.;
UNII : 7LJ087RS6F;
InChIKey : FTALBRSUTCGOEG-UHFFFAOYSA-N;
CAS number : 1744-22-5;
Drug name : Rilutek;
Chemical formula : C8H5F3N2OS;
Codes from synonyms : CDR0000631057; CDR0000631054;
Semantic type(s)