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Lurasidone Hydrochloride: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Lurasidone Hydrochloride is an atypical (second-generation) antipsychotic with the following evidence-based indications: Schizophrenia (FDA-approved): Treatment of schizophrenia in adults and…

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About Lurasidone Hydrochloride

Indications of Lurasidone Hydrochloride

Lurasidone Hydrochloride is an atypical (second-generation) antipsychotic with the following evidence-based indications:

  • Schizophrenia (FDA-approved): Treatment of schizophrenia in adults and adolescents aged 13-17 years.
  • Bipolar Depression (FDA-approved): Treatment of major depressive episodes associated with bipolar I disorder in adults and pediatric patients aged 10-17 years, as monotherapy or as adjunctive therapy with lithium or valproate.

Lurasidone Hydrochloride is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related psychosis in elderly patients (see Precautions and Warnings for boxed warning).

Off-label use of Lurasidone Hydrochloride for other psychiatric conditions has been reported in limited clinical experience but is not well established and should only be considered under specialist psychiatric supervision.

Dosage & Administration of Lurasidone Hydrochloride

Schizophrenia

PopulationStarting DoseDose RangeMaximum Dose
Adults40 mg once daily40-160 mg/day160 mg/day
Adolescents (13-17 years)40 mg once daily40-80 mg/day80 mg/day

Bipolar Depression (Major Depressive Episodes Associated with Bipolar I Disorder)

PopulationStarting DoseDose RangeMaximum Dose
Adults20 mg once daily20-120 mg/day120 mg/day
Pediatric (10-17 years)20 mg once daily20-80 mg/day80 mg/day

Administration

Lurasidone Hydrochloride must be taken once daily with food (a meal of at least 350 calories) to ensure adequate absorption. Dose adjustments, if needed, should be made gradually and no more often than every 24 hours, under physician supervision.

Renal Impairment

Moderate to severe renal impairment (CrCl less than 50 mL/min): starting dose 20 mg/day; maximum dose 80 mg/day.

Hepatic Impairment

Mild hepatic impairment: no dose adjustment needed. Moderate hepatic impairment: starting dose 20 mg/day, maximum 80 mg/day. Severe hepatic impairment: starting dose 20 mg/day, maximum 40 mg/day.

Side Effects of Lurasidone Hydrochloride

Common side effects associated with Lurasidone Hydrochloride include:

  • Akathisia (restlessness)
  • Somnolence (drowsiness)
  • Nausea
  • Parkinsonism (tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia)
  • Agitation
  • Insomnia
  • Dizziness
  • Vomiting

Less common but serious effects include neuroleptic malignant syndrome, tardive dyskinesia, orthostatic hypotension/syncope, metabolic changes (hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, weight gain - see Precautions and Warnings), and leukopenia/neutropenia. Seek prompt medical attention for severe muscle stiffness, high fever, confusion, irregular heartbeat, or fainting while taking Lurasidone Hydrochloride.

Contraindications of Lurasidone Hydrochloride

Lurasidone Hydrochloride is contraindicated in patients with:

  • Known hypersensitivity to lurasidone or any component of the formulation.
  • Concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin, ritonavir), due to markedly increased drug exposure.
  • Concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, St. John's Wort), due to loss of efficacy.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lurasidone Hydrochloride

What is Lurasidone Hydrochloride used for?

Lurasidone Hydrochloride is used to treat schizophrenia and depressive episodes associated with bipolar I disorder (bipolar depression), either alone or together with other mood stabilizers.

How should I take Lurasidone Hydrochloride?

Lurasidone Hydrochloride should be taken once daily, at the same time each day, with a meal of at least 350 calories, as food significantly improves its absorption. Taking it on an empty stomach can reduce its effectiveness.

What are the common side effects of Lurasidone Hydrochloride?

Common side effects of Lurasidone Hydrochloride include restlessness (akathisia), drowsiness, nausea, and symptoms of parkinsonism such as tremor or stiffness. Contact your physician if these are severe or persistent.

Can Lurasidone Hydrochloride be used during pregnancy?

Lurasidone Hydrochloride should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, since antipsychotic use in the third trimester has been linked to movement and withdrawal symptoms in newborns. Always consult your physician before using Lurasidone Hydrochloride during pregnancy.

Is Lurasidone Hydrochloride safe for elderly patients with dementia?

No. Lurasidone Hydrochloride carries a boxed warning because elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs have an increased risk of death. Lurasidone Hydrochloride is not approved for this use.

What should I do if I miss a dose or overdose on Lurasidone Hydrochloride?

If you miss a dose of Lurasidone Hydrochloride, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to the next dose; do not double the dose. If an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention or contact emergency services/poison control right away, as there is no specific antidote for Lurasidone Hydrochloride.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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