Lurasidone/Latuda

Lurasidone is an atypical antipsychotic that works by blocking dopamine (D2) and serotonin (5-HT2A) receptors, which helps regulate mood and psychotic symptoms. It also has activity at other serotonin receptors (5-HT7, 5-HT1A), which may contribute to its antidepressant effects. Unlike many other antipsychotics, it has minimal effects on histamine and muscarinic receptors, reducing sedation and metabolic side effects.

SSRIs help improve mood by increasing serotonin levels—a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating emotions, sleep, appetite, and overall mental well-being. Serotonin also supports memory, digestion, and other essential functions in the body.

When serotonin levels are too low, it can contribute to feelings of sadness, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Your provider may prescribe sertraline to help restore balanced serotonin levels in your brain, improving communication between brain cells. This can help relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety, allowing you to feel more stable and in control of your emotions.

Lurasidone is FDA-approved to treat schizophrenia and bipolar depression (bipolar I disorder). It is also prescribed off-label for major depressive disorder (as an adjunct to antidepressants) and anxiety disorders.

• Hallucinations and delusions (schizophrenia)
• Depressive episodes in bipolar disorder
• Mood instability and emotional dysregulation
• Cognitive symptoms such as poor concentration

Lurasidone is often a preferred option for individuals looking for an atypical antipsychotic with fewer metabolic side effects. However, since every individual reacts differently, it may take several weeks to assess effectiveness.

• Schizophrenia – often long-term for symptom management and relapse prevention.
• Bipolar depression – can be prescribed for both short-term and long-term maintenance therapy.
• Off-label depression or anxiety – varies based on individual response.

Lurasidone has been shown to be effective for treating both schizophrenia and bipolar depression, with studies indicating that it improves depressive symptoms and cognitive function while maintaining a lower risk of weight gain and sedation compared to other antipsychotics.

Lurasidone does not alter personality but helps stabilize mood and reduce symptoms of psychosis or depression. Any significant personality changes should be discussed with a doctor.

Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Restlessness (akathisia)
• Muscle stiffness
• Increased anxiety

Rare but serious side effects:

• Extrapyramidal symptoms (involuntary muscle movements)
• Increased blood sugar or cholesterol levels (though less common than with other antipsychotics)
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a rare but life-threatening reaction)

Stopping lurasidone suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, mood changes, or a return of the original condition. It should be tapered off under medical supervision.

Lurasidone is classified as Pregnancy Category B, meaning there is no known increased risk of birth defects in humans, but it should still be used with caution. It is not recommended while breastfeeding due to limited safety data.

Lurasidone is not addictive, but it should always be taken as prescribed to avoid withdrawal effects or worsening symptoms.

The FDA has approved lurasidone for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar depression. It carries a black box warning about increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis and a suicidal thoughts risk in young adults when used for mood disorders.