Luramax® Lurasidone Tablets

Description

Lurasidone 40 mg Tablets: Evidence-Based Antipsychotic for Schizophrenia and Bipolar Depression

Lurasidone 40 mg is a second-generation atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia and depressive episodes associated with bipolar I disorder. Unlike many older antipsychotics, this medication delivers therapeutic effects with a relatively lower risk of metabolic side effects such as weight gain and dyslipidemia. For this reason, healthcare providers across North America, Europe, and Australia frequently prescribe it.

Source: DailyMed – Lurasidone Label

Indications and On-Label Uses

The FDA has approved lurasidone for two primary indications:

• Treating schizophrenia in adults and adolescents aged 13 to 17.

• Managing bipolar depression as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy with lithium or valproate in patients aged 10 years and older.

Many clinicians consider it a first-line treatment due to its well-balanced efficacy and safety profile, especially when compared to older agents with higher rates of sedation and metabolic risk.

Source: FDA Label

Lurasidone Mechanism of Action

Lurasidone works by blocking dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, which reduces psychotic symptoms and improves mood stability. In addition, it binds to serotonin 5-HT7 receptors, which are believed to enhance cognition and antidepressant effects, and it acts as a partial agonist at 5-HT1A, further contributing to emotional balance.

These pharmacological properties make lurasidone effective for both psychosis and mood disorders.

Source: NCBI – Lurasidone Pharmacology

Dosage and Administration

Patients should start with 40 mg once daily, taken with food (minimum 350 calories). For bipolar depression, the initial dose may be 20 mg, titrated up to 120 mg/day based on response. In schizophrenia, the dose may increase to 160 mg/day if clinically indicated.

Taking Latuda 40 mg without food can reduce its effectiveness due to poor absorption. To avoid treatment failure, always take lurasidone with meals.

Source: NIH – Drug Information

Pharmacokinetics

Food significantly increases the absorption of lurasidone. Bioavailability improves by nearly 100% when taken with a meal.

• Bioavailability: 9% to 19% (fasting); up to 2× with food.

• Time to peak concentration: 1–3 hours.

• Metabolism: Primarily via CYP3A4.

• Elimination: Feces (67–80%), urine (9–19%).

• Half-life: Ranges from 18 to 40 hours.

Source: DrugBank – Lurasidone

Lurasidone Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Somnolence

• Akathisia

• Nausea

• Parkinsonism

• Insomnia

Serious but rare side effects:

• Tardive dyskinesia

• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

• Hyperglycemia

• Suicidal ideation (especially in adolescents)

Compared to other antipsychotics, lurasidone causes less weight gain, making it a preferred option for patients with metabolic risk factors.

Source: WebMD – Latuda Side Effects

Drug Interactions and Contraindications

Patients must avoid CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole) and inducers (e.g., rifampin), as these drugs alter lurasidone’s metabolism. Moreover, grapefruit and grapefruit juice should be avoided for the same reason.

Importantly, combining Latuda and alcohol can increase CNS depression and motor impairment. Patients should avoid alcohol while on this medication.

Source: Medscape Drug Interaction Checker

Why Is Latuda So Expensive?

The high Latuda price resulted from patent exclusivity and limited alternatives. Now that generic lurasidone is available, patients can expect significant savings. In fact, the Latuda generic price is often 70–80% lower than the brand name version. Patients may also benefit from Latuda coupon programs offered by pharmacies or manufacturers.

Source: GoodRx – Latuda Pricing

Lurasidone Brand Name in Global Markets

Lurasidone brand name remains Latuda across most global markets. Generic versions are sold as Lurasidone Hydrochloride Tablets.

Off-Label and Investigational Uses

Researchers have explored lurasidone in conditions such as:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) (as adjunct)

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Cognitive impairment in schizophrenia (due to 5-HT7 activity)

Although these uses remain off-label, clinical trials continue to investigate them.

Source: J Clin Psychopharmacol

Buy Latuda Online

You can buy Latuda online through licensed pharmacies, where a valid prescription is required.

How Fast Does Latuda Work?

Many patients begin to feel symptom improvement within 1 to 2 weeks, though full benefit may take 4 to 6 weeks. To ensure effectiveness, take lurasidone with food and follow your dosing schedule closely.

Source: NAMI – Antipsychotic Medications

FAQ – Lurasidone 40 mg (Latuda Generic)

Q: What is Lurasidone used for?
A: Lurasidone 40 mg is used to treat schizophrenia in adults and adolescents aged 13 and older. It is also prescribed for depressive episodes associated with bipolar I disorder in adults and children aged 10 years and older.

Q: How does Lurasidone work?
A: Lurasidone works by blocking dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. It also affects serotonin 5-HT7 and 5-HT1A receptors, which helps support its antipsychotic and antidepressant effects.

Q: What are common Lurasidone side effects?
A: Common side effects include somnolence (drowsiness), akathisia (restlessness), nausea, parkinsonism (movement disorder), and insomnia. Lurasidone has a lower risk of weight gain and metabolic complications than many other atypical antipsychotics.

Q: Can I take Latuda and alcohol together?
A: No, combining Latuda and alcohol is not recommended. Alcohol can intensify central nervous system side effects such as dizziness, sedation, and impaired coordination.

Q: How fast does Latuda work?
A: Some patients may begin noticing improvements within 1 to 2 weeks. However, full symptom relief often takes 4 to 6 weeks of consistent use, depending on the individual and condition being treated.

Q: Why is Latuda so expensive?
A: Latuda was expensive primarily due to patent protection and development costs. Now that generic versions of lurasidone are available in some regions, the cost has significantly decreased.

Q: Is there a Latuda generic price available?
A: Yes. Generic lurasidone has been approved and is available in many markets. Prices vary by country, pharmacy, and insurance coverage.

Q: Can I buy Latuda online?
A: Yes, Latuda and its generic forms can be purchased online through certified pharmacy websites. A valid prescription is required.

Q: What is the Lurasidone brand name?
A: The brand name for lurasidone is Latuda. It is sold under this name in the United States, Canada, the European Union, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

Q: Is there a Latuda coupon available?
A: Yes. Manufacturer coupons or savings programs are often available for eligible patients. These can be found on the official Latuda website or through participating pharmacies.