Side Effects of Latuda to Be Aware of — Talkspace

Latuda (lurasidone) is a prescription drug commonly used to treat depressive symptoms related to bipolar 1 and schizophrenia. In the class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics, Latuda is thought 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 highly effective in treating bipolar and schizophrenia, but like all medications, there are potential side effects when taking it. Understanding possible reactions is critical so you can 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 manage any challenges that might arise.

Common Side Effects You Might Expect While on Latuda

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

Most often, Latuda side effects are mild and temporary and don’t require medical intervention, but if they persist or worsen, you should consult your healthcare provider for medical advice. 

Here’s what you can expect during the first few weeks of taking Latuda:

• First 1 – 2 weeks: Symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking often improve, but may not fully resolve.
• By week 2: Motivation can increase, and the desire to be around others can improve.
• Week 3 and beyond: Symptoms of bipolar and schizophrenia can continue to improve the longer you take Latuda. It can take up to 3 months before you experience the full benefits of this drug. 

Common Latuda side effects include:

• Nausea
• Drowsiness
• Involuntary muscle movements (spasms, tremors, twitching)
• Dizziness  
• Restlessness
• Anxiety
• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Difficulty thinking clearly
• Trouble 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 often ease within the first few weeks, whereas appetite or sleep-related changes may last longer. 

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

“Taking Latuda at night helps with the drowsiness in the sedation effect to avoid nausea. It’s better 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 inform your doctor of any other medications you’re taking, as drug interactions can exacerbate side effects.”

– Talkspace psychiatrist Dr. Muhammad Munir, MD, DFAPA

Less Common Side Effects of Latuda

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

Monitor and discuss with your doctor if you experience any of the following:

• Strange dreams 
• Back pain 
• Blurred vision
• A burning feeling in your chest or stomach
• Decreased appetite
• Diarrhea 
• Feeling constant movement of self or surroundings
• Indigestion 
• A spinning sensation 
• Sweating 
• Tenderness in stomach
• Excessive mouth watering 
• Drooling

Serious Side Effects of Latuda

In rare cases, some people taking Latuda might experience severe side effects. These are more serious and can require immediate medical attention. 

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s crucial to contact your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room:

• Tardive dyskinesia 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) is a rare but serious reaction that can occur with certain medications, marked by high fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, irregular heartbeat, and excessive sweating.
• High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) can cause symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, or extreme fatigue.
• A severe allergic reaction 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 shortness of breath should not be ignored and need prompt evaluation.
• A low white blood cell count can lead to frequent infections or fever, signaling a need for medical assessment.

Long-Term Side Effects and Considerations

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

Some long-term side effects of Latuda include:

• Tardive dyskinesia (TD): Long-term use can cause an increased risk of developing a movement disorder like TD. Note that there’s less potential risk with Latuda than when taking older antipsychotics like Haldol, though. 
• Weight gain and metabolic changes: Latuda might cause increased appetite, leading to metabolic issues, including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or type 2 diabetes.
• Hormonal changes: In rare cases, Latuda can affect prolactin levels, causing issues such as breast tenderness or menstrual irregularities.

To minimize long-term risks, having regular check-ups with your healthcare provider is essential. Routine monitoring of your weight, blood sugar, cholesterol levels, and movement-related symptoms will ensure your doctor catches and manages any complications early.

Managing Side Effects with Your Healthcare Provider

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

Together, you can discuss:

• Dose adjustments: A lower dose might reduce the severity of reactions.
• A different medication: If you’re experiencing severe or lingering side effects, your healthcare provider might suggest alternatives for Latuda to find the best fit for your treatment goals.
• Implementing 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 for your next appointment — report any significant changes or severe reactions as soon as possible. 
• Following prescribed instructions: Always take Latuda exactly as directed. Never stop taking this or any drug without talking to your doctor first. Not having a proper taper plan can lead to Latuda withdrawal symptoms or worsening of your condition.

“Take medication on time and keep your doctor informed of any other medication, 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 managing bipolar 1, depression, or schizophrenia, but it’s vital to be informed about the common side effects of any drug you’re taking. Understanding what to expect, including potential drug interactions, can help you confidently manage your treatment.  

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