In keeping with the program's original objectives, it will now be phased out because of the commercial availability of Rilutek . Participating patients and healthcare professionals are receiving more detailed information in a special mailing. In establishing the price for Rilutek , RPR has taken a responsible posture which takes into account the significant research and development investment required to develop an orphan drug, but it also anticipates the future possibility that Rilutek may be used together with other therapies. In setting the price, we established a lower price than many people expected, and, we remain committed to provide a comprehensive range of patient services that potentially benefit all ALS patients. ALS attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, resulting in muscle paralysis and respiratory failure.
Patients generally survive three to five years after diagnosis.
Rhone-Poulenc Rorer Inc. is a global pharmaceutical company dedicated to improving human health. Any question regarding a medical diagnosis, treatment, referral, drug availability or pricing should be directed to either a licensed physician or to the product's manufacturer.