Latuda (generic name: lurasidone) should NOT be cut in half or split, according to the manufacturer. It comes in various strengths to allow your doctor to prescribe the correct dose. Latuda is an atypical antipsychotic approved to treat patients with schizophrenia or bipolar depression.
Latuda, manufactured by Sunovion, comes in five different strengths (20 mg, 40 mg, 60 mg, 80 mg and 120 mg). The tablets are not scored, making splitting difficult. Store your Latuda tablets at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
You can view photos of the Latuda tablets here at the Drugs.com Images.
How should I take Latuda?
Latuda is an oral tablet taken once per day in both adults and children. Your doctor will prescribe the best dose for you based on your symptoms. Dose adjustments may be needed if you have liver or kidney disease. Take Latuda exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
You can view the complete dosing recommendations for Latuda here. Do not change the dose or stop taking Latuda without first talking to your health care provider.
It is important that you take your Latuda with food that contains at least 350 calories. Taking Latuda with food will greatly help to increase the absorption of the medicine into your body. Better absorption can increase the effectiveness of Latuda.
Avoid grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit during treatment with Latuda. Grapefruit can cause a drug-food interaction that can increase the amount of Latuda in your blood. Increased levels of Latuda in your blood may lead to side effects.
Other important drug interactions can occur with Latuda, so it is important to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, herbals, vitamins and dietary supplements. Let them know when you start or even stop taking a medication. See Latuda drug interactions here.
Latuda may make you drowsy. Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how Latuda affects you.
Do not become too hot or dehydrated during treatment with Latuda.
- Do not exercise too much.
- In hot weather, stay inside in a cool place if possible.
- Stay out of the sun.
- Do not wear too much clothing or heavy clothing.
- Drink plenty of water.
Can I drink alcohol with Latuda?
You should not drink alcohol while taking Latuda. It may worsen some side effects of Latuda, including drowsiness, unsteadiness or dehydration.
Some of the most common side effects with Latuda includes:
- extreme drowsiness (somnolence)
- akathisia (restlessness or inability to sit or stay still)
- extrapyramidal symptoms or movement disorders
- nausea
View a full list of Latuda side effects here.
Bottom Line
- Do not cut your Latuda tablet in half. The manufacturer of Latuda provides five different strengths of the medication if your doctor needs to adjust your dose. The tablets are not scored, making splitting difficult.
- Take Latuda exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change your dose or stop taking Latuda without first talking to your health care provider.
- It is important that you take your Latuda with food that contains at least 350 calories, to enhance absorption into your body and increase the effectiveness of the medicine.
This is not all the information you need to know about Latuda for safe and effective use. Review the full Latuda prescribing information here, and discuss this information with your doctor or other health care provider.