*3.1.1.1.2 Riluzole*

Riluzole is a benzothiazole anticonvulsant drug with neuroprotective effects in the SCI [22]. One of the mechanisms by which riluzole operates is the inhibition in the presynaptic terminals of glutamate, and this helps to limit the glutamateinduced toxicity [23]. In addition, riluzole blocks the NaV-gated channels, avoiding swelling and neuronal acidosis. Riluzole blocks the entry of H+ to the neurons through the Na+ /H+ exchanger; this prevents the Ca+2 from inducing the release of glutamate and excitotoxicity [22]. Investigations have shown that the interruption of events associated with glutamate release on the presynaptic space by reducing Ca+2 influxes provokes a glutamate-mediated LPO reduction [23, 24]. Administration of riluzole within 12 hours of SCI was well tolerated and suggests that it may have a beneficial effect on motor outcome [25].
