Latuda (Lurasidone) Generic

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.

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 increaseNotes:
  The information in this website is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.