Caplyta: Uses, Side Effects, Dosages, Precautions

What is Caplyta?

• Caplyta (lumateperone) is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia in adults and depressive episodes associated with bipolar I and II disorders.
• It affects dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate, improving symptoms related to mood, thoughts, and behaviors.
• Caplyta is taken orally once daily.

Off-Label Uses

• Caplyta may be prescribed off-label for other mental health conditions, like anxiety and ADHD, but its safety and efficacy for these conditions haven't been established.

Before Taking Caplyta

• Discuss your symptoms, potential side effects, and past responses to medications with your healthcare provider.
• Inform them about any other medications, supplements, or substances you use, as they may interact with Caplyta.

Precautions and Contraindications

• Individuals allergic to lumateperone or Caplyta components shouldn't take it.
• Caplyta shouldn't be used to treat dementia-related psychosis due to increased risk of adverse cerebrovascular reactions.
• Caplyta may increase the risk of neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a potentially fatal condition involving autonomic instability, delirium, hyperpyrexia, and muscle rigidity.

Caplyta Dosage

• Caplyta comes as a 42 mg capsule.
• Recommended dosage: one capsule once daily with food.
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for the next one.
• Don't take two doses at once.

Caplyta Side Effects:

• Common side effects include drowsiness and dry mouth.
• More severe side effects may include decreased blood pressure, impaired ability to operate vehicles or heavy equipment, increased risk of falls, seizures, weight gain, and high blood glucose.

Warnings and Interactions

• Caplyta may cause metabolic changes like diabetes mellitus and hyperglycemia.
• It can decrease white blood cells, increasing the risk of infections.
• Be cautious during strenuous exercise. Avoid dehydration and heat exposure.
• Caplyta may interact with certain medications, grapefruit juice, and St. John's wort.
• Avoid taking Caplyta with CYP3A4 inducers, moderate or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, and UGT inhibitors.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

• The safety of Caplyta during pregnancy and breastfeeding hasn't been established.
• Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before taking Caplyta if you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Summary

• Take Caplyta as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Don't stop taking it without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better.
• Report any side effects or concerns to your healthcare team.