Latuda (lurasidone) prescription available online

Bipolar depression

Latuda is FDA-approved to treat depression associated with bipolar disorder (bipolar depression).

Other psychiatric disorders

Latuda may also be helpful when prescribed "off-label" for major depressive disorder psychosis, dementia-related psychosis in elderly patients, and other psychiatric disorders. "Off-label" means that Latuda is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration for a specific condition. It is less likely this would be considered reasonable via telemedicine unless a short-term bridge refill of a current medication is being requested.

The side effects associated with taking Latuda are typically mild. Most Latuda side effects are associated with drowsiness.

Latuda has some common side effects. Side effects of Latuda include:

• Nausea

• Akathisia (inability to remain still)

• Drowsiness 

• Involuntary or Uncontrollable Movements

• Tremors

• Insomnia

• Parkinsonism: rigidity, slow movements

Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:

• New or uncontrollable movements

• Trouble swallowing

• High blood sugar

• Suicidal thoughts

You should call your doctor if you notice any adverse effects, or if you develop any other new or worsening symptoms.

In rare cases, antipsychotic medication may cause neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a life-threatening idiosyncratic reaction.

Latuda has 560 drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter medicines. 

Possible drug interactions with Latuda include:

• Antifungal medicines, such as ketoconazole or voriconazole

• Antibiotic medicines, such as clarithromycin or rifampin

• St. John's Wort

• Antivirals, such as ritonavir

• Seizure medicine, such as carbamazepine or phenytoin

Avoid consuming grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking Latuda, as it may increase the blood levels of your medication. Avoid drinking alcohol, as it may increase the nervous system and blood pressure-lowering effects of Latuda.

Patients treated with Latuda may experience low blood pressure or become more sensitive to extreme temperatures. Be careful when getting up from a sitting or lying position, and be sure to drink plenty of fluids.

Taking Latuda during the last three months of pregnancy may cause breathing problems, feeding problems, and withdrawal symptoms in the newborn. If you become pregnant, tell your healthcare professional. Don't stop taking Latuda unless directed by your healthcare provider.

Avoid taking Latuda if you have certain medical conditions, such as:

• Heart disease or stroke

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol or triglycerides

• Liver or kidney disease

• Breast cancer

• Abnormal hormone function

• Suicidal thoughts or actions