Lurasidone Medication: Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects Explained

Summary of Key Points

Lurasidone is an antipsychotic medication used to manage mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. It works by balancing certain chemicals in the brain, which can improve mood, thinking, and behavior. Lurasidone is typically taken once daily with food. Common side effects include drowsiness and nausea. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose, and consider scheduling a telemedicine visit with one of our providers for personalized care.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Latuda

Generic Name: Lurasidone

The generic name refers to the official medical name of the active ingredient in the medication. It is listed in parentheses after the brand name.

Pharmacologic Category

Atypical Antipsychotics (Second Generation Antipsychotics)

Other medications in this category include Risperidone, Aripiprazole, Quetiapine, and Olanzapine.

Lurasidone Dosage

Lurasidone is prescribed for various mental health conditions. The dose and frequency depend on the specific condition being treated. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them before making any changes to your dose. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers for personalized care.

Lurasidone Dosage for Schizophrenia (Adults)

Initial dose: 40 mg once daily with food

Maintenance dose: 40 mg to 160 mg once daily with food

Duration: Long-term treatment, as directed by your doctor

Lurasidone Dosage for Bipolar Disorder (Adults)

Initial dose: 20 mg once daily with food

Maintenance dose: 20 mg to 120 mg once daily with food

Duration: Long-term treatment, as directed by your doctor

Lurasidone Dosage for Major Depressive Disorder (Adults)

Initial dose: 20 mg once daily with food

Maintenance dose: 20 mg to 120 mg once daily with food

Duration: Long-term treatment, as directed by your doctor

Other Indications (Psychotic Disorders, Schizoaffective Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Mood Disorders, Delusional Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)

Dosing varies depending on the specific condition and individual patient needs. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized dosing recommendations.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Tablets: 20 mg, 40 mg, 60 mg, 80 mg, 120 mg

Administration Instructions for Lurasidone

Lurasidone should be taken once daily with food (at least 350 calories) to ensure proper absorption. Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush, chew, or split the tablet. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it’s almost time for your next dose. Never take two doses at once. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and reach out to us via telemedicine if you have any questions or concerns.

Lurasidone Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

Like all medications, Lurasidone can cause side effects. Some are common, while others are rare but serious. If you experience any side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. You can also schedule a telemedicine consultation with one of our providers for further guidance.

Common Lurasidone Side Effects (Occurring in 10% or more of patients)

Drowsiness: Feeling unusually sleepy or fatigued.

Nausea: A sensation of discomfort in the stomach, often accompanied by the urge to vomit.

Weight gain: Some patients may notice an increase in weight over time.

Restlessness: A feeling of being unable to sit still or relax.

Less Common Lurasidone Side Effects (Occurring in 1% to 10% of patients)

Dizziness: A sensation of lightheadedness or imbalance.

Dry mouth: A reduction in saliva, which may cause discomfort.

Increased blood sugar: Elevated blood sugar levels, which could potentially lead to diabetes.

Serious Side Effects of Lurasidone (Rare but require immediate medical attention)

Severe allergic reactions: Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): A rare but life-threatening condition characterized by high fever, muscle stiffness, and confusion.

Tardive Dyskinesia: Involuntary movements, particularly of the face and tongue.

Contraindications for Lurasidone

A contraindication is a specific situation or condition where a medication should not be used because it may be harmful to the patient. If you have any of the following conditions, taking Lurasidone may not be safe for you. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medication, and if you have any of these conditions, discuss alternatives with one of our providers through telemedicine.

Allergy to Lurasidone: If you have a known allergy to Lurasidone or any of its ingredients, taking this medication could cause a severe allergic reaction, including rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Severe Liver Impairment: Lurasidone is metabolized by the liver. If you have severe liver disease, the medication may not be processed properly, leading to higher levels in your body and increased risk of side effects.

Use of Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Medications like ketoconazole or clarithromycin can increase the levels of Lurasidone in your body, leading to potentially dangerous side effects.

Use of Strong CYP3A4 Inducers: Medications like rifampin or St. John’s Wort can decrease the effectiveness of Lurasidone by speeding up its breakdown in the body.

Drug to Drug Interactions with Lurasidone

Lurasidone can interact with other medications, which may either increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of your treatment. Below are some medications that may interact with Lurasidone:

Ketoconazole (Nizoral): This antifungal medication can increase Lurasidone levels, leading to a higher risk of side effects.

Rifampin (Rifadin): This antibiotic can decrease Lurasidone levels, making it less effective.

Carbamazepine (Tegretol): This anticonvulsant can reduce the effectiveness of Lurasidone by speeding up its metabolism.

Clarithromycin (Biaxin): This antibiotic can increase the concentration of Lurasidone in your body, potentially causing harmful side effects.

St. John’s Wort: This herbal supplement can reduce the effectiveness of Lurasidone by increasing its breakdown in the liver.

Lurasidone in Pregnancy

Is it safe to take Lurasidone when pregnant?

Lurasidone is classified as a Category B medication for pregnancy. This means that while animal studies have not shown harm to the fetus, there are no well-controlled studies in pregnant women. It’s important to carefully weigh the potential benefits and risks of continuing Lurasidone during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s essential to discuss your treatment options with your healthcare provider. Our telemedicine providers are available to help you make an informed decision about your care.

Lurasidone while Breastfeeding

Is it safe to take Lurasidone while breastfeeding?

It is currently unknown whether Lurasidone passes into breast milk. Due to the potential for serious side effects in a nursing infant, it is generally recommended to either discontinue the medication or stop breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, it’s crucial to talk to your healthcare provider about the best course of action. You can schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss your options in detail.

Estimated Cost of Lurasidone Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Lurasidone without insurance ranges from $1,000 to $1,200. However, using a GoodRx coupon, the price may be reduced to around $900, depending on the pharmacy. Prices can vary, so it’s a good idea to check with your local pharmacy or use a discount service like GoodRx to find the best available price.

Possible Alternatives to Lurasidone

Several alternative treatments and lifestyle changes may help manage the conditions for which Lurasidone is prescribed. However, it’s essential to discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. You can consult one of our telemedicine providers to explore these options.

Schizophrenia

Other antipsychotic medications, such as risperidone (Risperdal) or aripiprazole (Abilify), may be considered. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress and maintaining a healthy routine, can also be beneficial.

Bipolar Disorder

Mood stabilizers like lithium or anticonvulsants such as valproate (Depakote) are commonly used. Therapy and regular physical activity can also help manage symptoms effectively.

Major Depressive Disorder

Antidepressants like sertraline (Zoloft) or fluoxetine (Prozac) may be alternatives. Psychotherapy and lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, can also improve mood and overall well-being.

Psychotic Disorders

Other antipsychotic medications, such as quetiapine (Seroquel), may be used. Therapy and support groups can also provide valuable assistance in managing symptoms.

Schizoaffective Disorder

A combination of antipsychotics and mood stabilizers may be used to manage symptoms. Psychotherapy and lifestyle changes, such as stress management techniques, can also be helpful.

Anxiety Disorders

Medications like SSRIs (e.g., escitalopram) or benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam) may be considered. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness practices can also be effective in managing anxiety.

Depression

Antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), may be alternatives. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and therapy can also play a significant role in managing symptoms.

Mood Disorders

Mood stabilizers and antidepressants may be used to treat mood disorders. Therapy and lifestyle changes, such as maintaining regular sleep patterns and reducing stress, can also be beneficial.

Delusional Disorder

Antipsychotic medications, such as olanzapine (Zyprexa), are often prescribed. Therapy and support from family or caregivers can also help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

SSRIs like sertraline (Zoloft) or paroxetine (Paxil) may be prescribed to manage PTSD symptoms. Therapy, particularly trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness practices can also be highly effective.

Recent Updates on Lurasidone Research

Recent studies have focused on the long-term safety and effectiveness of Lurasidone in treating schizophrenia and bipolar depression. A 2022 study published in the journal Schizophrenia Research found that Lurasidone significantly reduced symptoms of schizophrenia over a 12-month period, with a relatively low risk of weight gain and metabolic side effects—common concerns with other antipsychotic medications. Additionally, ongoing research is exploring the use of Lurasidone in treating other mood disorders, such as major depressive disorder with mixed features. While these studies are promising, more research is needed to fully understand the long-term benefits and risks of Lurasidone.

If you have any questions about the latest research or how it may impact your treatment plan, our telemedicine providers are available to help you navigate your options.

James Kingsley

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