Latuda (Lurasidone)

• Latuda, an atypical antipsychotic, is used in psychiatric disorders that involve dopamine and serotonin dysregulation.
• Schizophrenia: reduces acute psychotic symptoms and helps prevent relapse in adult patients.
• Bipolar I disorder (depressive episodes): improves depressive symptoms during bipolar depressive phases.
• Maintenance therapy in schizophrenia: supports long‑term symptom control and functional stability.

• Lurasidone exerts its antipsychotic effect primarily by antagonising dopamine D2 receptors and serotonin 5‑HT2A receptors, while acting as a partial agonist at 5‑HT1A and an antagonist at 5‑HT7 receptors. This combined modulation of dopaminergic and serotonergic pathways normalises neurotransmission implicated in psychosis and mood disturbances, contributing to symptom improvement.

Lurasidone may be associated with a range of adverse reactions, which are categorised by frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea
• Akathisia (inner restlessness)
• Somnolence
• Weight gain

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
• Tardive dyskinesia
• Seizures
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviours

• When prescribing Lurasidone, clinicians should observe several safety considerations to minimise risk.
• Metabolic monitoring: regularly assess weight, glucose and lipid levels.
• Suicidality assessment: evaluate for emergence of suicidal thoughts, especially early in treatment.
• Discontinuation: avoid abrupt cessation; taper dose under medical supervision.
• Hepatic impairment: use caution and consider dose adjustment in patients with liver dysfunction.
• Pregnancy and lactation: discuss potential risks with women of childbearing potential; use only if benefits outweigh risks.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep tablets in the original container, protect from moisture and light.

Lurasidone interacts with several medicines that can alter its plasma concentration or increase adverse effects.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole): may raise lurasidone levels and risk toxicity.
• Strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, carbamazepine): may reduce efficacy by lowering drug concentrations.
• Anticholinergic agents with high burden: can exacerbate cognitive side effects.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Other antipsychotics: additive central nervous system effects may increase sedation or extrapyramidal symptoms.
• CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids): may enhance sedation and respiratory depression.
• QT‑prolonging drugs (e.g., certain antiarrhythmics): may increase risk of cardiac arrhythmias.