Latuda vs. risperidone: Differences, similarities & side effects

In this article:

• Key differences
• Conditions treated
• Is risperidone better than Latuda?
• Insurance coverage and cost
• Side effects
• Drug interactions
• Drug warnings
• Can you take Latuda and risperidone together?

In this article

• Key differences
• Conditions treated
• Is risperidone better than Latuda?
• Insurance coverage and cost
• Side effects
• Drug interactions
• Drug warnings
• Can you take Latuda and risperidone together?

Latuda (lurasidone) and risperidone are two medications often prescribed for conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Both belong to a class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics. Also called second-generation antipsychotic medications, Latuda and risperidone block dopamine receptors and also affect serotonin levels to help manage symptoms such as mood swings, hallucinations, and other psychological disturbances. Second-generation antipsychotics tend to cause fewer side effects and broader therapeutic effects than first-generation antipsychotics. 

Although they are similarly prescribed medications, Latuda and risperidone have differences in dosages, age restrictions, and potential side effects. 

Latuda vs. risperidone: Key differences

Latuda is a brand-name drug containing the active ingredient lurasidone. The generic version of Latuda is widely available. Latuda is typically taken as one tablet once daily, with oral tablets coming in strengths of 20 milligrams (mg), 40 mg, 60 mg, 80 mg, and 120 mg. The dosage varies depending on the individual and condition being treated. 

Risperidone is a generic drug sold under the brand name Risperdal. Unlike Latuda, risperidone may be taken as one tablet once daily or half a tablet twice daily. Regular oral tablets come in strengths of 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg, and 4 mg. Risperidone is also available as an oral solution and an orally disintegrating tablet. 

Latuda vs. risperidone: Conditions treated

Latuda and risperidone are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults and adolescents 13 years and older. These medications may help treat symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. 

Latuda is also used for treating bipolar depression in adults and children ages 10 and older. It can be used alone or as an add-on therapy with lithium or valproate. Risperidone, on the other hand, is approved to treat mania associated with bipolar disorder. In addition, risperidone can treat symptoms of irritability in children and adolescents 5 years and older. 

Is risperidone better than Latuda?

An open-label extension study looked at the effects of switching from risperidone to lurasidone in patients with schizophrenia. Both groups showed similar improvements in their symptoms, as measured by the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). In addition, patients switching to lurasidone showed improved metabolic health, such as a significant drop in prolactin levels.

A meta-analysis of more than 10 clinical trials compared the effectiveness and side effects of lurasidone and risperidone for treating schizophrenia in teenagers. Lurasidone led to significantly less weight gain, with patients gaining around 2.5 lbs (1.16 kg) less than those on risperidone. In addition, the study found that lurasidone had a lower risk of a person stopping treatment than those on other drugs like aripiprazole and paliperidone ER.

The better choice between these treatment options will depend on a person’s overall condition. A healthcare provider can determine the most appropriate medication. 

Latuda vs. risperidone: Insurance coverage and cost comparison

Latuda is a brand-name drug. Therefore, it tends to be on the higher end in cost. Insurance may require prior authorization or step therapy, meaning trying cheaper generic drugs like risperidone first. Risperidone is generally covered by most insurance plans and Medicare. Latuda is also available in a generic form, which may be widely available and covered by insurance plans. 

Without insurance, the average retail price of Latuda is $1,863 for a 30-day supply of 40 mg tablets. In contrast, risperidone averages $130 for a 30-day supply of 1 mg tablets. Prices fluctuate and can vary significantly based on location and pharmacy.

Patients could save on prescription drugs by using SingleCare coupons, which offer discounts on medications like Latuda and risperidone. Using these coupons may make a difference in reducing out-of-pocket costs.

*Cost at the time of publication varies by pharmacy.

Latuda vs. risperidone side effects

Common side effects of these antipsychotic drugs include drowsiness, insomnia, nausea, and weight gain. Latuda and risperidone may also cause movement disorders like being unable to sit still (akathisia) and involuntary repetitive movements (tardive dyskinesia). 

Risperidone is more commonly associated with weight gain, insomnia, and anxiety than Latuda. On the other hand, Latuda may more frequently cause nausea and restlessness. 

Serious side effects can also occur with both drugs. For example, both drugs may carry a risk of neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition with symptoms such as muscle rigidity, fever, and altered mental status. These medications may also increase the risk of low blood pressure and seizures.

Frequency is not based on data from a head-to-head trial. This may not be a complete list of adverse effects that can occur. Please refer to your healthcare provider to learn more.

Source: DailyMed (Latuda), DailyMed (Risperdal)

Latuda and risperidone drug interactions

Latuda and risperidone share similar drug interactions. Both Latuda and risperidone affect the central nervous system (CNS). Combining them with other CNS depressants, such as benzodiazepines, opioids, or alcohol, may amplify drowsiness or dizziness.

Latuda and risperidone may lower blood pressure. If they’re used with other medications that lower blood pressure, the combined effect can be significant, requiring careful monitoring. Latuda and risperidone may reduce the effectiveness of medications like levodopa and dopamine agonists, which are used to treat Parkinson’s disease.

Certain antifungals and antibiotics, such as ketoconazole and clarithromycin, can increase Latuda or risperidone levels in the body. Other drugs can lower Latuda and risperidone levels, making them less effective. Therefore, combining these medications with Latuda or risperidone may need to be avoided or done with caution.

Certain antidepressants like fluoxetine and paroxetine can increase risperidone levels. Dose adjustments may be necessary if these drugs are used together.

Consult a healthcare professional for other possible drug interactions.

Latuda and risperidone drug warnings

Latuda and risperidone both have serious warnings, especially for older adults with dementia-related psychosis. These drugs are not approved for these patients due to an increased risk of death.

Other warnings for these medications include the following:

• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome: Both medications also carry a risk of neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a life-threatening condition that requires stopping the medication immediately. 
• Tardive dyskinesia: This serious movement disorder has been reported in those using Latuda and risperidone, which may require stopping the drugs.
• Metabolic changes: High blood sugar (glucose) levels, increased lipid levels, and weight gain are common with both medications. In addition, both drugs can cause elevated prolactin levels, leading to potential hormonal issues.
• Orthostatic hypotension: A sudden drop in blood pressure when standing can occur with either drug. 
• Low white blood cell counts: Both medications may cause low white blood cell counts.
• Problems with thinking and coordination: Latuda and risperidone can cause cognitive and motor impairment, so patients should be careful when driving or operating machinery. 
• Seizures: These medications also increase the risk of seizures, especially in those with a history of seizures or conditions that lower the seizure threshold.

Latuda has a specific warning about increasing suicidal thoughts and behaviors in young people. Close monitoring for any signs of worsening depression or suicidal thoughts is important.

Latuda and risperidone require careful monitoring by a healthcare provider to manage and reduce potential side effects. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice if you experience adverse effects while taking these medications.

Can you take Latuda and risperidone together?

Taking Latuda and risperidone together is generally not recommended because they both work as antipsychotics and can lead to an increased risk of side effects. These side effects can include severe drowsiness, dizziness, weight gain, and metabolic changes. Since both medications work in similar ways, using them together does not typically provide additional benefits.