### Side Effects of Lurasidone (Latuda) and How to Manage Them Lurasidone (Latuda) is a medication used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder. While it can be effective, it also has a range of side effects, from mild to severe. Here’s what you need to know: #### Common Side Effects - **Drowsiness**: You might feel unusually sleepy. - **Nausea**: Some people experience an upset stomach. - **Weight Gain**: There may be some weight gain, especially in the first few months. - **Increased Blood Sugar**: This can be a concern, especially for people with diabetes. #### Serious Side Effects - **Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS)**: These are serious muscle movement issues, like twitching or difficulty moving. - **High Prolactin Levels**: This can cause issues like irregular periods in women and erectile dysfunction in men. - **Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)**: A rare but life-threatening reaction that includes symptoms like high fever and muscle stiffness. #### When to Seek Medical Help - **Emergency Situations**: Call 911 if you have severe muscle stiffness, high fever, or thoughts of suicide. - **Doctor Consultation**: Speak to your doctor if you experience bothersome side effects like weight gain, high blood sugar, or high prolactin levels. #### Managing Side Effects - **Regular Monitoring**: Your doctor may want to monitor your weight, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels. - **Medication Adjustments**: Sometimes, adjusting the dose or taking the medication at a different time can help. - **Lifestyle Changes**: Avoid alcohol, recreational drugs, and grapefruit juice. Stay hydrated and avoid overheating. Always discuss any side effects with your doctor to find the best way to manage them. Do not stop taking lurasidone suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider.