Latuda (lurasidone) is a prescription drug commonly used to treat depressive symptoms associated with bipolar 1 and schizophrenia. In the class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics, Latuda is believed to work by balancing dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain to improve mood and sense of reality, reduce hallucinations and stabilize emotions.
Research shows that Latuda can be extremely effective in bipolar treatment and schizophreniabut like all medicines, there are possible side effects while taking it. Understanding potential reactions is critical so you can take Latuda safely and effectively.
Before you start taking Latuda, discuss it openly with your doctor so you know what to expect and how to manage any challenges that may arise.
Latuda prescription online
Get an evaluation and prescription for Latuda from a licensed psychiatric provider in your state.
Common side effects you can expect while on Latuda
As your body adjusts to Latuda treatment, you may experience some side effects at first. Over time, many people find that results diminish, but individual results may vary.
Most of the time, side effects of Latuda are mild and temporary and do not require medical intervention, but if they persist or worsen, you should consult your healthcare provider for medical advice.
Here’s what to expect during the first few weeks of taking Latuda:
- First 1-2 weeks: Symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking often improve, but may not go away completely.
- By week 2: Motivation may increase and the desire to be around others may improve.
- Week 3 onwards: Bipolar and schizophrenia symptoms may continue to improve the longer you take Latuda. It may take up to 3 months to experience the full benefits of this medication.
Common Latuda side effects include:
- Nausea
- Drowsiness
- Involuntary muscle movements (convulsions, tremors, twitching)
- Dizziness
- Worry
- Worry
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Difficulty thinking clearly
- Difficulty making decisions
- Muscle stiffness
- Slow motion
How long do Latuda side effects last?
The duration and severity of Latuda side effects depends on individual factors. Mild effects often wear off within the first few weeks, while appetite or sleep-related changes may last longer.
Some side effects may require immediate medical attention and, depending on their severity, may take longer to resolve. Always discuss the lingering or bothersome effects of any medication or treatment option with your doctor to ensure proper management.
“Taking Latuda at night helps with sleepiness in the sedating effect to prevent nausea. It is best not to take it on an empty stomach and avoid drinking too much alcohol while taking Latuda as it may worsen dizziness, drowsiness or other side effects. Always tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking, as drug interactions can make side effects worse.”
– Talkspace psychiatrist Dr. Muhammad Munir, MD, DFAPA
Less common side effects of Latuda
Although less common, some side effects of Latuda (lurasidone) may require medical attention because of their impact on daily life and functioning.
Monitor and talk to your doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Strange dreams
- Back pain
- Blurred vision
- A burning sensation in your chest or stomach
- Decreased appetite
- Diarrhea
- Feeling of constant movement of self or environment
- Indigestion
- Sense of rotation
- Sweating
- Tenderness in stomach
- Excessive watering of the mouth
- Shawl
Serious side effects of Latuda
In rare cases, some people taking Latuda may experience serious side effects. These are more serious and may require immediate medical attention.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is important to contact your doctor or go to the emergency room immediately:
- Tardive dyskinesia refers to involuntary movements of the face, tongue or limbs, which can become permanent if left untreated.
- Changes in mood or behaviorsuch as depression, increased anxiety, or thoughts of self-harm or suicide, should be treated immediately.
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare but serious reaction that can occur with certain medications, characterized by high fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, irregular heartbeat, and excessive sweating.
- High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) may cause symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision or extreme fatigue.
- Severe allergic reaction may include swelling of the face, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing or a rash, which require urgent medical attention.
- Heart problems such as chest pain, irregular heartbeat or shortness of breath should not be ignored and need early evaluation.
- Low white blood cell count it can lead to frequent infections or fever, signaling the need for medical evaluation.
Long-term side effects and concerns
Latuda is is considered safe for the long-term management of schizophrenia and may also be used for short-term or long-term use to treat depressive episodes of bipolar 1. However, prolonged treatment box you have additional risks that you should be aware of.
Some long term side effects of Latuda include:
- Tardive dyskinesia (TD): Long-term use may cause an increased risk of developing a movement disorder such as TD. Note that there is less potential risk with Latuda than there is with older antipsychotics such as Haldol.
- Weight gain and metabolic changes: Latuda can cause increased appetite, leading to metabolic problems such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
- Hormonal changes: In rare cases, Latuda can affect prolactin levels, causing problems such as breast tenderness or menstrual disturbances.
To minimize long-term risks, regular checkups with your healthcare provider are essential. Regular monitoring of your weight, blood sugar, cholesterol levels, and movement-related symptoms will ensure your doctor catches and manages any complications early.
Manage side effects with your healthcare provider
If side effects persist, talk to your healthcare provider to seek solutions.
Together, you can discuss:
- Dose adjustments: A lower dose may reduce the severity of reactions.
- A different drug: If you experience severe or prolonged side effects, your healthcare provider may suggest alternatives to Latuda to find the best fit for your treatment goals.
- Implementing lifestyle changes: Adopt healthy eating habits, exercise regularly and practice stress management to reduce side effects.
- New symptoms: If you have new or bothersome symptoms, don’t wait for your next appointment — report any significant changes or serious reactions as soon as possible.
- Following the prescribed instructions: Always take Latuda exactly as directed. Never stop taking this or any medicine without talking to your doctor first. Not having a proper tapering plan can lead to Latuda withdrawal symptoms or worsening of your condition.
“Take medication on time and tell your doctor about any other medication, over-the-counter supplements, or use of alcohol or illegal substances.”
– Talkspace psychiatrist Dr. Muhammad Munir, MD, DFAPA
See if Latuda is right for you with Talkspace
Latuda can be a game-changer in the management of bipolar 1, depression, or schizophrenia, but it’s vital to be aware of the common side effects of any medication you take. Understanding what to expect, including potential drug interactions, can help you manage your treatment with confidence.
If you’re thinking about starting or switching to Latuda, Talkspace can help you navigate the process. Talkspace provides easy and convenient access to online psychiatrists, therapists and medication management. Take the first step towards managing your mental health with Talkspace today. Get in touch to learn more about how to get Latuda online with Talkspace.
