Patient Impact Award for Liquid Riluzole Treatment for ALS

The Patient Impact Award from Life Sciences Pennsylvania pharmaceutical company will be recognized in March for the US launch of the first easy-to-swallow, thickened riluzole liquid (Tiglutek; ITF Pharma, Berwyn, PA) for treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).  

The suspension liquid, which was approved under FDA fast-track designation, is based on bioavailability studies comparing oral riluzole tablets to the liquid.  

About 80% of people with ALS develop weakness and paralysis in the muscles of the face and throat. The oral suspension eliminates the need for patients and caregivers to alter tablets, which eases administration and could enable more accurate dosing and better patient compliance. 

"The recent availability of an easy-to-swallow formulation of riluzole marked an important step forward for people living with ALS, caregivers, and medical professionals," said Calaneet Balas, president and chief executive officer at The ALS Association.