FDA-Approved Drugs

There are currently four drugs approved by the U.S. FDA to treat ALS (Radicava, Rilutek, Tiglutik, and Nuedexta). Studies all over the world, many funded by The ALS Association, are ongoing to develop more treatments and a cure for ALS.

Radicava (Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America)
The first new treatment specifically for ALS in 22 years, the drug was approved by the FDA in May 2017, less than a year after Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America submitted a New Drug Application to the FDA. Learn more.

Rilutek (now generic)
This was the first FDA-approved drug available to treat ALS — in 1995. It inhibits glutamate release and prolongs life approximately three months. Riluzole is the generic name of Rilutek.

Tiglutik (ITF Pharma)
The first and only thickened liquid form of riluzole, Tiglutik was approved by the FDA in September 2018. This formulation contrasts with the oral pill form of riluzole that has been on the market for ALS for more than 20 years. It is designed to avoid potential problems of crushing tablets. Learn more.

Nuedexta
This treatment for pseudobulbar affect (inappropriate laughing or crying), which some people living with ALS develop, was FDA-approved in 2011. It is a combination of dextromethorphan and quinidine. The quinidine inhibits a liver enzyme that would otherwise rapidly break down the dextromethorphan in most patients.