I started having symptoms last July and was diagnosed officially December 9th. I started taking Riluzole the end of December.
My doctor explained to me that although it may extend life only a few months, she believes those months are spread out over the course of the disease and it can improve the quality of life during that time. This is the reason I decided to take it.
So far, I have not lost any additional function over the past two months. My weakness is all on the left side, hand and leg, but I can still walk a couple of miles and swim daily. Everything is just done a little slower these days. It's impossible to tell if it's because of the Riluzole, or if I've just been fortunate so far.
It is a bit of a hassle to take the doses at the right time, allowing for 3 hours around taking it with no food. I have not noticed any side effects from taking it, but I'm really careful to follow the instructions. I do allow myself a glass (or two) of red wine each evening, and have slight concerns about the possible liver damage that could result, but I guess that's a risk I'm willing to take right now.