Lurasidone 80mg

Uses of Lurasidone 80mg

Lurasidone 80mg is used to treat schizophrenia in adults and adolescents aged 13 years and older, manage depressive episodes associated with bipolar disorder (bipolar depression) as monotherapy or as adjunctive therapy with mood stabilizers, and improve mood, reduce hallucinations, and stabilize thought processes.

How Does Lurasidone 80mg Work?

Lurasidone works by modulating the activity of dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters that play a key role in mood, behavior, and cognition. It acts as an antagonist on dopamine D2 receptors and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, helping reduce symptoms of psychosis and depression while improving cognitive and emotional stability.

How to Use Lurasidone 80mg

Take the medication as prescribed by your healthcare provider, typically once daily. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. It is best to take Lurasidone with food (at least 350 calories) to enhance absorption. Take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent drug levels. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Lurasidone 80mg include drowsiness or fatigue, nausea or upset stomach, weight gain, restlessness or agitation, and dizziness, particularly when standing up. Rare but serious side effects include severe allergic reactions such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing, symptoms of high blood sugar (increased thirst, frequent urination), uncontrollable muscle movements (tardive dyskinesia), and neuroleptic malignant syndrome (fever, muscle stiffness, confusion). Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe or persistent side effects.

Drug Interactions

Lurasidone 80mg may interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects or altering its effectiveness. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are using, particularly strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Clarithromycin), strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., Rifampin, St. John’s Wort), medications affecting serotonin levels (e.g., SSRIs, MAOIs), and antihypertensives, which may enhance blood pressure-lowering effects. Always inform your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or herbal products you are using.

Food Interactions

Lurasidone should be taken with food containing at least 350 calories to improve absorption. Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it may interfere with the metabolism of Lurasidone and increase the risk of side effects.

Contraindications

This medication is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to Lurasidone or any of its ingredients, use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers, and severe liver or kidney impairment without appropriate dosage adjustment. Your healthcare provider will evaluate your medical history to ensure this medication is safe for you.

Precautions and Warnings

Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is recommended, especially in individuals with diabetes, as Lurasidone may increase the risk of hyperglycemia. Use with caution in elderly individuals with dementia-related psychosis, as it may increase the risk of death. Avoid activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how Lurasidone affects you. Inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or plan to breastfeed while on this medication.

Safety Information

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of severe allergic reactions, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, or uncontrollable muscle movements. Overdose symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, or irregular heartbeat. Contact a healthcare provider or poison control center immediately if overdose occurs.

Storage

Store Lurasidone 80mg tablets at room temperature, between 20–25°C (68–77°F). Keep the medication in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and excessive moisture. Avoid storing it in bathrooms. Ensure the medication is out of reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused or expired tablets responsibly, following local waste disposal guidelines.