Fast K channels are more sensitive to riluzole than slow K channels in myelinated nerve fibre.

The effects of 1-500 microM riluzole, a novel psychotropic agent, were studied on the nodal K current of isolated nerve fibres of the frog. When added to the external solution, the substance rapidly and reversibly inhibited slow, fast 1 and fast 2 K components of the tail K current. The concentrations of riluzole inducing half maximum reduction of slow, fast 1 and fast 2 K conductances were 413 microM, 24 microM and 21 microM respectively. It is concluded that the substance is about 20 times more effective in blocking fast than slow K channels.