What it is used for

Schizophrenia in adults and young people aged 13 and over

Read our guides:

Schizophrenia

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Depression in bipolar disorder

How it works

Lurasidone blocks dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain. This helps reduce symptoms such as hearing voices, unusual beliefs and disordered thinking.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Lurasidone can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

feeling sleepy
feeling restless or unable to sit still
feeling sick
shaking
stiffness
trouble sleeping

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

a high temperature with stiff muscles, sweating and confusion (neuroleptic malignant syndrome). Call 999
uncontrolled movements of the face, tongue or body
thoughts of harming yourself
a fast or irregular heartbeat

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

Take it with food, as this helps the body absorb it.
Avoid grapefruit juice.
Your weight, blood sugar and cholesterol will be checked regularly.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.