Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) with Latuda (Lurasidone)
Teeth grinding (bruxism) is not a recognized or documented side effect of Latuda (lurasidone) based on available clinical evidence and guidelines. The provided evidence does not contain any information linking lurasidone to bruxism, and this association is not mentioned in standard antipsychotic safety profiles.
Understanding Bruxism as a Side Effect
While the evidence does not specifically address lurasidone and bruxism, it's important to understand the context:
Bruxism occurs in approximately 15% of children and up to 96% of adults in the general population, making it a common condition that may be coincidental rather than medication-related 1
Bruxism has been associated with stress, occlusal disorders, allergies, and sleep positioning rather than specific medications 1
Antipsychotic-Related Movement Disorders
The relevant concern with atypical antipsychotics like Latuda relates to extrapyramidal side effects (EPS):
Atypical antipsychotics are theoretically less likely than conventional neuroleptics to cause extrapyramidal side effects, including tardive dyskinesia 2
Some atypical agents (e.g., risperidone) still have antidopaminergic activity and can produce extrapyramidal symptoms 2
Tardive dystonia is characterized by slow movements along the long axis of the body that culminate in spasms, including facial spasms, which is distinct from bruxism 2
Clinical Approach if Bruxism Develops
If a patient on Latuda develops teeth grinding, consider the following algorithm:
Evaluate for primary bruxism causes: stress, sleep disorders, occlusal problems, and concurrent medications 1
Review all medications: Check for other drugs more commonly associated with movement disorders or bruxism
Assess for EPS: Monitor for other extrapyramidal symptoms using the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale at least every 3-6 months 2
Management options for bruxism itself include: stress reduction therapy, alteration of sleep positioning, biofeedback training, physical therapy, and dental evaluation with possible occlusal splint 1
If significant tooth attrition, mobility, or fracture occurs, dental referral is mandatory 1
Important Caveat
The absence of evidence linking lurasidone to bruxism does not definitively rule out this association, as rare or emerging side effects may not yet be well-documented in the literature. However, based on current evidence, bruxism should not be assumed to be caused by Latuda without first excluding more common etiologies 1.