Riluzole is a benzothiazole derivative with neuroprotective and potential anti-depressant and anxiolytic activities. Has an inhibitory effect on glutamate release, inactivation of voltage-dependent sodium channels, and 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.