Description
Latuda (Lurasidone)
Latuda is a medication prescribed to treat several different psychiatric disorders. The conditions it is indicated to treat include:
- Depressive episode associated with bipolar 1 disorder (alone)
- Depressive episode associated with bipolar 1 disorder (in combination with lithium or valproic acid)
- Schizophrenia
Bipolar disorder and schizophrenia are psychiatric disorders where there is a problem with the messaging systems in the brain. Symptoms may manifest by affecting mood or thought and may impair cognition.
Latuda works by blocking certain receptors on the surface of brain cells that receive signals from other brain cells. Latuda blocks receptors for dopamine (D2) and serotonin (5HT2A). By blocking these signals in certain parts of the brain, Latuda helps to restore normal thoughts, moods, and cognition.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C28H36N4O2S |
License |
US FDA, US DailyMed |
Bioavailability |
9–19% (oral) |
Legal status |
Rx-Only |
Chemical Name |
Lurasidone |
Elimination half-life |
18–40 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
20mg - 120mg |
Pregnancy |
Not recommended |
Brands |
Latuda |
Protein binding |
99% |
PubChem CID |
213046 |
MedlinePlus |
a611016 |
ChEBI |
70735 |
ATC code |
N05AE05 |
DrugBank |
DB08815 |
KEGG |
D04820 |
Routes of administration |
By mouth |
Directions
The starting dose of Latuda is 20-40 mg taken by mouth once daily. The dose is increased until the lowest effective dose is found, typically 20-160 mg once daily.
The daily dose may be reduced in patients with impaired kidney or liver function.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Latuda is Lurasidone hydrochloride.
Cautions
Latuda may increase the risk of death in elderly patients being treated for dementia-related psychosis.
Taking Latuda or other antipsychotic medications for long periods may cause an irreversible movement disorder called tardive dyskinesia (TD). TD is characterized by stiff and jerky movements of the face and body that cannot be controlled.
Latuda and other antipsychotics may increase the risk of metabolic disorders like diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia, and lead to weight gain.
Latuda and other antipsychotic drugs may raise levels of prolactin in the blood, which could lead to gynecomastia.
Speak to your doctor for a full list of warnings and precautions.
Side Effects
Common adverse reactions of Latuda include:
- Akathisia
- Extrapyramidal symptoms
- Insomnia
- Nausea
- Somnolence
- Vomiting
- Weight increase
Frequently Asked Questions about Latuda (Lurasidone)
What is Latuda used for?
Latuda (generic name: lurasidone) is an antipsychotic medicine. It is used to treat schizophrenia in adults and teenagers who are at least 13 years old. Latuda is also used to treat episodes of depression associated with bipolar disorder (bipolar depression) in adults and children who are at least 10 years old.
Does Latuda cause weight gain?
Latuda has a low risk for weight gain in adults and children with schizophrenia or bipolar depression, but this can vary in individual patients. In general, Latuda caused minimal weight gain either in the short-term or the longer-term studies conducted by the manufacturer.
Why is Latuda so expensive?
The cost of Latuda can be attributed to factors such as its recent FDA approval, lack of pharmaceutical price regulation, and barriers to affordable healthcare in the United States. The cost can also depend on your treatment plan, your insurance coverage, and the pharmacy you use.
How long does it take for Latuda to work?
It may take 3 to 4 weeks at an appropriate dose for you to see effects and possibly 2 to 3 months to see full effects.
Is Latuda a controlled substance?
No, Latuda is not classified as a controlled substance by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).
Does Latuda make you sleepy?
Yes, Latuda can cause drowsiness and make you feel sleepy. Drowsiness is one of the most common side effects that patients experience with Latuda.
How does Latuda work?
Latuda works by rebalancing dopamine and serotonin in your body to help control your thoughts, mood, and behaviors. When you swallow a Latuda tablet, it breaks down in your digestive tract and the lurasidone it contains is absorbed into your blood. The lurasidone is then transported to your brain in your bloodstream.
How long does Latuda stay in your system?
Latuda has a half-life of 18 hours so it will take 4 to 6 days to completely clear the body.
What are the side effects of Latuda?
Side effects of Latuda can include sleepiness, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, movement disorders, restlessness, nausea, drowsiness, involuntary muscle movements, such as tremor, spasms, or twitching, stiff muscles, slow movements, or trouble moving.
Can you overdose on Latuda?
Yes, it is possible to overdose on Latuda. Symptoms of an overdose can include drowsiness, confusion, slowed heart rate, and low blood pressure. If you believe you’ve taken too much of Latuda, it’s important to seek medical help immediately.
About Dr. Conor Sheehy (Page Author)
Dr. Sheehy (BSc Molecular Biology, PharmD) works a clinical pharmacist specializing in cardiology, oncology, and ambulatory care. He’s a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS), and his experience working one-on-one with patients to fine tune their medication and therapy plans for optimal results makes him a valuable subject matter expert for our pharmacy. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 12785