Lurasidone should be avoided during pregnancy unless this has been prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor will monitor your baby closely after birth because giving Lurasidone during the last 3 months to the mother may cause shaking, sleepiness, agitation, breathing problems, difficulty in feeding and muscle stiffness and/or weakness in the baby.

Lurasidone may cause an increase in blood sugar levels in diabetic patients or those having risk factors for diabetes. It may also decrease white blood cell count and increase prolactin, cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Therefore, during treatment with Lurasidone, your doctor may get blood tests done to check for blood sugar levels, blood cell counts, prolactin levels (hormone) and cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Lurasidone should be swallowed whole with water in order to mask the bitter taste. You should take it during meals or just after having meals as this helps the body to take up the medicine and allows it to work better. Try to take it at the same time every day, so that you remember to take it.

Weight gain is a common side effect of Lurasidone, though not everyone is affected. If you experience weight gain on taking Lurasidone, talk to your doctor or a nutritionist. Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly can help you maintain your weight.

Lurasidone does not show any immediate improvement. It may take several days to weeks to notice improvement in symptoms. The patient is continuously monitored during this time.

Alcohol should be avoided while taking Lurasidone since taking both together may cause severe side effects. In addition to that, you should not drink grapefruit juice while on Lurasidone since it affects the way it works.

Lurasidone can cause increased risk of death in elderly people who have confusion, memory loss or have lost touch with reality (dementia-related psychosis). It is important to know that Lurasidone may increase suicidal thoughts or behavior in some children, teenagers, and young adults within the first few months of treatment and when the dose is changed.

Yes, Lurasidone may cause dizziness, sleepiness and vision problems. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should avoid driving or using heavy machinery.