Indications
Latuda (active ingredient: lurasidone) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Schizophrenia: Latuda is used for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults and adolescents aged 13 to 17 years.
- Bipolar Depression: It is also indicated for the treatment of depressive episodes associated with bipolar I disorder (bipolar depression) in adults and pediatric patients aged 10 to 17 years.
Latuda belongs to a class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics, which work by modulating the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine and serotonin, to help regulate mood and reduce symptoms of psychosis.
Uses and Dosage
Latuda comes in the form of a tablet that you take by mouth with food, as directed by your doctor. The recommended dosage of Latuda is based on several factors including your medical condition, response to treatment, age, and other medications you are taking. Do not change the dose or stop taking Latuda without consulting with your doctor first.
The recommended starting dose for adults taking Latuda is 40mg per day. The maximum recommended dose is 80mg per day for the treatment of bipolar depression and 120mg per day for the treatment of schizophrenia. However, recent changes in the product labeling now recommend a dose range of 40-160mg per day, administered once daily with food. Your doctor may adjust your dosage based on your individual needs and response to the medication.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Latuda (Lurasidone):
- Blurred vision
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Inability to stay still
- Loss of appetite
- Mask-like facial expression
- Muscle stiffness
- Nausea
- Restlessness or agitation
- Stomach pain
- Weight gain
Serious Side Effects of Latuda (Lurasidone):
- Drooling
- Fainting
- Fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeats
- Increase in blood sugar
- Increase in cholesterol and triglycerides
- Increase in prolactin level
- Interrupted breathing during sleep
- Lightheadedness
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (fever, severe tiredness, irregular heartbeat, confusion, tiredness)
- Seizures
- Signs of infection (cough/fever)
- Trouble/pain swallowing
- Uncontrollable movements
Allergic Reactions of Latuda (Lurasidone):
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives
- Itching
- Itching
- Severe dizziness
- Swelling of the face and neck
- Swelling of the lymph nodes
- Wheezing
Form and Strength
Latuda (Lurasidone) is available in the following forms and strength:
Latuda: Film Coated Tablet
- 20 mg
- 40 mg
- 60 mg
- 80 mg
- 120 mg
Lurasidone: Tablet
- 20 mg
- 40 mg
- 60 mg
- 80 mg
- 120 mg
Caution
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications and products you are using, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products, to avoid potential interactions or side effects.
- Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while using Latuda, unless instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. This is due to the potential for grapefruit to increase the risk of side effects when taken with this medication.
- While you are taking Latuda, you may be more sensitive to temperature extremes such as extremely hot or cold conditions. Avoid getting too cold or becoming overheated or dehydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, especially in hot weather and during exercise. It is easier to become dangerously overheated and dehydrated while you are taking this medicine.
- If you experience any symptoms of high blood sugar such as increased thirst or urination, notify your doctor immediately. They may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet in response to the side effect.
- Lurasidone hydrochloride can cause a number of side effects including drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, shaking, weight gain, mask-like facial expression, inability to keep still, and agitation. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
- When starting lurasidone, there is a possibility of experiencing a significant decrease in blood pressure which can result in dizziness and lightheadedness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long can you stay in Latuda?
Generally, Latuda is prescribed for six weeks. If it is used for a longer period, then it increases the risk of long-term side effects.
What should I avoid while taking Latuda?
You should not eat grapefruit or take anything that has grapefruit in it because it can increase the amount of Latuda in the system. It is also best to avoid alcohol as it can worsen certain side effects.
Can Latuda be taken with other medications?
Latuda can interact with other medications, so be sure to inform your doctor of all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and supplements.
Can Latuda be taken during pregnancy?
The safety of Latuda during pregnancy has not been established, so it should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks.
How long does it take for Latuda to start working?
It can take several weeks for Latuda to start working. Your doctor will monitor your progress and adjust your dosage as needed.
Resources
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/200603s035lbl.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-155134/latuda-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/latuda.html
- https://www.rxlist.com/latuda-drug.htm
- https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Lurasidone-(Latuda)
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