Why do you have to avoid grapefruit when taking Latuda?
Grapefruit contains organic compounds called furanocoumarins that block an enzyme called CYP3A4 that normally breaks down Latuda and certain other medications. When this enzyme is blocked, levels of Latuda in the blood will be higher than expected, and the intended effect or side effects of the drug will be stronger, even dangerous. People taking Latuda should avoid grapefruit, grapefruit juice, and products containing grapefruit (such as marmalade) because taking them together may increase the risk of side effects such as Parkinson-like symptoms, diabetes, headache, drowsiness, dizziness, or other effects.
Other citrus fruits such as pomelos, limes, and Seville oranges also contain furanocoumarins, and they may also interact with Latuda, but they haven't been studied as closely.
References
- Latuda (lurasidone hydrochloride). Reviewed 11/2020. Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc. https://www.drugclasses.com/pro/latuda.html
- Latuda (lurasidone). Latuda.com https://www.latuda.com/
- Tsai, J., Thase, M., Mao, Y., Ng-Mak, D., Pikalov, A., & Loebel, A. (2017). Lurasidone for major depressive disorder with mixed features and anxiety: A post-hoc analysis of a randomized, placebo-controlled study. CNS
Read next
Can I drink grapefruit juice with simvastatin?
You should not drink grapefruit juice with simvastatin because it can significantly increase blood levels of simvastatin and increase the risk of side effects such as liver damage and a condition called rhabdomyolysis, which is the excessive breakdown of muscle tissue. Occasionally, rhabdomyolysis can cause kidney damage and death. Continue reading
Can you use limes or lime juice while taking statin drugs (i.e. atorvastatin)?
Limes, pomegranates, pomelos, and Seville oranges can also interact with some medications, including statins such as atorvastatin. There just hasn't been as much research published regarding how other types of citrus (apart from grapefruit) interact with statins. Large quantities of lime or lime peel should be avoided, although small amounts (such as a twist of lime in a drink) are unlikely to cause a significant interaction. Continue reading
Can you stop taking Latuda immediately?
Talk to your doctor before stopping Latuda (lurasidone) or adjusting your dose, even if you feel better after starting treatment. If you stop taking Latuda, your symptoms can worsen or you may suffer from unwanted side effects. Always take Latuda exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Continue reading
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- Is Latuda a controlled substance?
Drug information
Related support groups
- Grapefruit (70 questions, 64 members)
- Latuda (70 questions, 335 members)