Side Effects of Latuda to Be Aware of — Talkspace

Latuda (lurasidone) is a prescription medication commonly used to treat depressive symptoms related to bipolar 1 disorder and schizophrenia. In the class of medications 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 very effective in treat bipolar disorder and schizophreniaBut like all medications, there are possible side effects when taking it. Understanding possible reactions is essential to being able to 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 deal with any challenges that may arise.

Common Side Effects You Can Expect While Taking Latuda

As your body adjusts to treatment with Latuda, you may initially experience some adverse reactions. Over time, many people find the effects diminish, but individual results may vary.

In most cases, Latuda side effects 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 is what you can expect during the first few weeks of taking Latuda:

• First 1 – 2 weeks: Symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thoughts often improve, but may not resolve completely.
• For week 2: Motivation can increase and the desire to be close to others can improve.
• Week 3 and beyond: Symptoms of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia may continue to improve the longer you take Latuda. It may take up to 3 months before you experience the full benefits of this medication.

Common Latuda Side Effects include:

• Nausea
• Drowsiness
• Involuntary muscle movements (spasms, tremors, spasms)
• Dizziness
• Concern
• Anxiety
• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Difficulty thinking clearly
• Problems making decisions
• Muscle stiffness
• slow movement

How long do Latuda side effects last?

The duration and severity of Latuda side effects depend on individual factors. Mild effects usually ease within the first few weeks, while changes related to appetite or sleep may last longer.

Some side effects may require immediate medical attention and, depending on their severity, may take longer to resolve. Always discuss persistent or bothersome effects of any medication or treatment option with your doctor to ensure proper management.

“Taking Latuda at night helps with drowsiness due to the sedative effect to prevent nausea. It is best not to take it on an empty stomach and to avoid excessive alcohol consumption 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 exacerbate side effects.”

– Talkspace Psychiatrist Dr. Muhammad Munir, MD, DFAPA

Less common side effects of Latuda

Although less common, some Latuda (lurasidone) side effects may require medical attention due to their impact on daily life and functioning.

Monitor and talk to your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• strange dreams
• backache
• Blurred vision
• A burning sensation in the chest or stomach.
• Decreased appetite
• Diarrhea
• Feeling constant movement of oneself or one’s surroundings.
• Indigestion
• A spinning sensation
• Perspiration
• Tenderness in the stomach
• Excess water in the mouth
• drooling

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 essential that you contact your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room:

• tardive dyskinesia It refers to involuntary movements of the face, tongue or limbs, which can become permanent if left untreated.
• Changes in mood or behavior.such as depression, increased anxiety, or thoughts of self-harm or suicide, should be addressed immediately.
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) It is a rare but serious reaction that can occur with certain medications and is characterized by high fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, irregular heartbeat, and excessive sweating.
• High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) It may cause symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, or extreme fatigue.
• A serious allergic reaction. It may involve swelling of the face, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing or a rash, all of which require urgent medical attention.
• heart problems such as chest pain, irregular heartbeat or difficulty breathing should not be ignored and need immediate evaluation.
• A low white blood cell count It may cause frequent infections or fever, indicating the need for medical evaluation.

Side effects and long-term considerations

Latuda is considered safe for the long-term treatment of schizophrenia and can also be used short or long term to treat depressive episodes of bipolar 1 disorder. However, long-term treatment can has additional risks that you should be aware of.

Some long term side effects from Latuda include:

• Tardive dyskinesia (TD): Long-term use may lead to an increased risk of developing a movement disorder such as TD. However, keep in mind that the potential risk with Latuda is lower than when taking older antipsychotics such as Haldol.
• Weight gain and metabolic changes.: Latuda could 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 irregularities.

To minimize long-term risks, it is essential to have regular checkups with your healthcare provider. Routine monitoring of your weight, blood sugar, cholesterol levels, and movement-related symptoms will ensure that your doctor detects and manages any complications early.

Managing side effects with your healthcare provider

If side effects persist, talk to your healthcare provider for solutions.

Together you can discuss:

• Dose adjustments: A lower dose may reduce the severity of reactions.
• A different medication: If you experience serious or persistent side effects, your healthcare provider may suggest alternatives to Latuda to find the one that best meets your treatment goals.
• Implement lifestyle changes: Adopt healthy eating habits, exercise regularly, and practice stress management to help reduce adverse reactions.
• New symptoms: If you have new or bothersome symptoms, don’t wait until your next appointment; Report any significant changes or serious reactions as soon as possible.
• Following prescribed instructions: Always take Latuda exactly as directed. Never stop taking this or any other medication without first talking to your doctor. Not having a proper tapering plan can lead to Latuda withdrawal symptoms or worsen your condition.

“Take medications on time and keep your doctor informed about any other medications, over-the-counter supplements, or use of alcohol or illicit 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 disorder, depression, or schizophrenia, but it is vital to be informed about the common side effects of any medication you are taking. Understanding what to expect, including potential drug interactions, can help you manage your treatment with confidence.

If you’re considering starting or switching to Latuda, Talkspace can help you navigate the process. Talkspace ensures easy and convenient access to psychiatrists, therapists and medication management online. Take the first step towards managing your mental health with Talkspace today. Get in touch to learn more about getting Latuda online with Talkspace.