From the Research
Latuda (lurasidone) typically takes 1-2 weeks before patients begin to notice initial improvements in symptoms, with full therapeutic effects often developing over 4-6 weeks of consistent use at 20 mg daily. This is based on the most recent and highest quality study available, which suggests that lurasidone has a rapid absorption and linear pharmacokinetics, allowing it to start working quickly 1. Some patients may experience certain side effects like drowsiness more quickly, sometimes within days of starting treatment. The medication works by regulating dopamine and serotonin neurotransmitters in the brain, which requires time to achieve stable levels and produce the desired therapeutic effect.
It's also important to note that lurasidone has been found to be effective in reducing depressive symptoms in bipolar I depression, with significant improvements in symptoms observed after 6 weeks of treatment 2. Additionally, lurasidone has been shown to have a favorable profile with respect to weight gain and metabolic disturbances, which is an important consideration for patients with bipolar disorder 3.
In terms of safety and efficacy, lurasidone has been compared to other atypical antipsychotics, and has been found to have a lower risk of hospitalization and shorter hospital length of stay compared to some other medications 4. A recent systematic review also found that lurasidone was associated with an increased risk of akathisia and hyperprolactinemia, but was overall a effective and safe treatment option for bipolar depression 5.
Overall, the evidence suggests that lurasidone 20 mg daily is a effective and safe treatment option for patients with bipolar depression, with noticeable improvements in symptoms typically occurring within 1-2 weeks and full therapeutic effects developing over 4-6 weeks. Patients should continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if they don't feel immediate benefits, and should consult their healthcare provider before making any changes to their dosage or stopping the medication.