Lurasidone
Uses of Lurasidone
The main use of Lurasidone is for the management of mental health conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar depression. It falls under the category of atypical antipsychotic medications.
Secondarily, Lurasidone is sometimes used off-label for bipolar mania and irritability or anger in autism spectrum disorder.
Side effects of Lurasidone
Sleepiness or drowsiness
Restlessness
Muscle stiffness
Nausea
Anxiety
How Lurasidone works
Lurasidone is classified as an atypical antipsychotic.
Its exact mechanism is still not fully understood. However, it is believed that Lurasidone works by impacting two neurotransmitters in the brain - dopamine and serotonin. To do this, Lurasidone attaches to and blocks the receptors of these neurotransmitters, particularly D2 receptors for dopamine and 5-HT2A and 5-HT7 receptors for serotonin. By blocking these receptors, it decreases the excessive activity of dopamine and serotonin in the brain. This helps restore the balance of these neurotransmitters, contributing to better management of symptoms associated with schizophrenia and stabilisation of mood in bipolar depression.
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Written By
MD Ayurveda
Reviewed By
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
Lurasidone can be taken orally (tablet).
Age and Dose Restrictions
This medicine is meant for adults and adolescents starting from 13 years of age for treating schizophrenia and for children starting from 10 years of age for treating episodes associated with bipolar I disorder.
Contraindications
Lurasidone is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Lurasidone or any component of the formulation.
Other Medications to Avoid
Lurasidone may interact with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as ketoconazole and itraconazole), CYP3A4 inducers (like rifampin and phenytoin), and benzodiazepines (such as chlordiazepoxide and diazepam).
Before starting any prescription or over-the-counter medications, it's crucial to consult a doctor.
Overdose and Missed Dose
An overdose of Lurasidone may cause severe drowsiness, extrapyramidal symptoms (tremors or muscle stiffness), agitation, anxiety, and other serious symptoms. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
If you miss a dose of Lurasidone, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
Management of Side Effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Drinking plenty of water may help to manage side effects such as dizziness and nausea.
Taking Lurasidone with a meal can also help minimize gastrointestinal discomfort.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
Lurasidone may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some people. This could affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating machinery until you are sure you can do so safely.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
Lurasidone should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks, as per the doctor's advice. Breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor before using this medicine.
Caution in Other Conditions
Patients with a history of seizures or conditions that lower the seizure threshold should exercise caution when taking Lurasidone.
Patients with renal or hepatic impairment may require lower doses and should consult their doctor before using this medicine.
Caution should also be exercised in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis due to an increased risk of stroke.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
Limit intake of processed food and high-sugar drinks.
Avoid grapefruit products. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may affect the amount of Lurasidone in your blood.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lurasidone a steroid?
No, Lurasidone is not a steroid. It is an atypical antipsychotic medication used for managing mental health conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar depression.
Does Lurasidone have any effect on sleep?
Yes, one of the common side effects of Lurasidone is somnolence, which is a state of strong desire for sleep or sleeping for unusually long periods.
Will Lurasidone affect fertility?
There is no explicit information about Lurasidone affecting fertility. It is advisable to consult your doctor for information related to this.
Is it safe to take Lurasidone daily?
Yes, it is safe to take Lurasidone daily as long as it is prescribed by your doctor. Do not adjust or stop the medication without consulting your doctor.
How much time does Lurasidone take to work?
Lurasidone typically starts showing its effect within 1-3 hours of oral administration. However, the full benefit may only be evident after several weeks of regular use.
What is the best time to take Lurasidone?
The optimal time to take Lurasidone will depend on individual factors and should be determined in consultation with your doctor.
What natural alternatives are there to Lurasidone?
There are no known natural alternatives to Lurasidone that have been proven effective in managing symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar depression. Always consult with your doctor before trying any alternative therapies.
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