Med Talk

Latuda

What is LATUDA?

An Effective Treatment Option for Bipolar Depression

Latuda® (lurasidone HCl) is a once-a-day prescription medication. It is indicated to treat adult patients with depressive episodes in bipolar I disorder (bipolar depression) when used alone or with lithium or valproate. In clinical studies, LATUDA was proven effective for many people struggling with bipolar depression.
LATUDA is the first medication approved for bipolar depression that can be taken either:
  • on its own (monotherapy), or
  • with a mood-stabilizing medication (adjunctive therapy), either lithium or valproate.
LATUDA is part of a class of medications called atypical antipsychotics.

How Does LATUDA Work?

Although it’s not known exactly how Latuda® (lurasidone HCl) works, here’s some helpful information about the science behind it:
  • LATUDA is part of a class of medicines called atypical antipsychotics (LATUDA is not an antidepressant)
  • Atypical antipsychotics are thought to work by adjusting the levels of certain chemical messengers, called neurotransmitters
  • Researchers have identified two neurotransmitters that may play a role in bipolar disorder: dopamine and serotonin
Taking Latuda:  Once a day pill/same time a day, take with at least 350 calories, don't miss!  WATCH alcohol.

Side Effects of LATUDA

Ask Your Doctor About Possible Side Effects of LATUDA

Learning about possible side effects is an important part of taking any medication. For many people taking Latuda® (lurasidone HCl), the side effects may differ. Your doctor can tell you what to expect when you’re taking LATUDA as your bipolar depression medication—both the side effects and benefits.
Once you have the complete picture, you and your doctor will be able to make important treatment decisions together. After all, no one knows your body better than you.
The side effects shown below are NOT a complete list. Please see additional Important Safety Information for a more comprehensive list.
Be aware of any possible side effects and work with your doctor to help manage them. Speak up if your medicine is not working or if you have any side effects. If you are starting to experience worsening of symptoms, don't be afraid to call your doctor.
INCREASED MORTALITY IN ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED PSYCHOSIS; and SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS
Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis (having lost touch with reality due to confusion and memory loss) treated with this type of medicine are at an increased risk of death compared to patients receiving placebo (sugar pill). LATUDA is not approved for treating elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis.
Antidepressants have increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and actions in some children, teenagers, and young adults. Patients of all ages starting treatment should be watched closely for worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or actions, unusual changes in behavior, agitation, and irritability. Patients, families, and caregivers should pay close attention to any changes, especially sudden changes in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. This is very important when an antidepressant medicine is started or when the dose is changed. Report any change in these symptoms immediately to the doctor. LATUDA is not approved for use in pediatric patients with depression.
THE MOST COMMON SIDE EFFECTS OF LATUDA
In clinical studies the most common side effects with LATUDA included:
  • sleepiness or drowsiness
  • restlessness and feeling like you need to move around (akathisia)
  • difficulty moving, slow movements, muscle stiffness, or tremor
  • nausea

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