What is the recommended dosing time for Latuda (lurasidone)?

Recommended Dosing Time for Lurasidone (Latuda)

Lurasidone (Latuda) should be taken once daily with food (at least 350 calories) to ensure proper absorption and effectiveness. 1

Importance of Food Administration

Lurasidone's absorption is significantly affected by food intake:

• Administration with food increases the AUC approximately 2-fold
• Food increases the Cmax (maximum concentration) approximately 3-fold 1
• Without adequate food intake, the medication may not reach therapeutic levels

Dosing Recommendations

For Adults:

• Starting dose: 20-40 mg once daily
• Effective dose range: 40-80 mg daily (can be increased to 120 mg daily in some cases)
• No initial dose titration required 1

For Pediatric Patients (10-17 years):

• Starting dose: 20 mg once daily
• Maximum recommended dose: 80 mg daily 1

Special Populations:

• Renal impairment: Starting dose of 20 mg daily, maximum 80 mg daily
• Hepatic impairment: Starting dose of 20 mg daily, maximum 80 mg in moderate impairment or 40 mg in severe impairment 1

Clinical Considerations

Food Requirements

• The meal should contain at least 350 calories
• This requirement is critical as all clinical studies demonstrating efficacy were conducted with food administration 1, 2
• Taking lurasidone without food may result in subtherapeutic levels and reduced efficacy

Timing Considerations

• Evening administration may be beneficial for patients who experience somnolence as a side effect 2
• Morning administration may be preferable for patients who experience akathisia or nausea, allowing these symptoms to resolve during waking hours 3

Common Side Effects to Monitor

• Somnolence (especially early in treatment)
• Akathisia
• Nausea
• Parkinsonism 2, 4

Practical Recommendations

1. Consistent timing: Take lurasidone at the same time each day to maintain stable blood levels
2. Substantial meal: Ensure the medication is taken with a meal of at least 350 calories
3. Consider side effects: If somnolence is problematic, evening dosing may be preferable
4. Monitor for adverse effects: Watch for akathisia and extrapyramidal symptoms, especially during initial treatment

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Taking without food: This is the most critical error as it significantly reduces absorption by up to 3-fold 1
• Inconsistent timing: Variable administration times may lead to fluctuating blood levels
• Inadequate caloric intake: A snack or very light meal may not provide sufficient calories for proper absorption
• Discontinuing abruptly: When stopping lurasidone, gradual tapering is preferred to minimize withdrawal effects

Lurasidone's favorable metabolic profile makes it particularly beneficial for patients with metabolic concerns, but proper administration with food is essential to achieve therapeutic benefits 2, 5, 6.