Caplyta

Older adults who also have dementia sometimes have some symptoms of schizophrenia, like hallucinations and delusions. This is called dementia-related psychosis, and shouldn't be treated with Caplyta (lumateperone). If Caplyta (lumateperone) is used for dementia-related psychosis, it can cause death. The cause of death is typically from heart problems, stroke, or infections. Let your healthcare team know if you or your loved one has dementia before starting Caplyta (lumateperone).

Research of other antidepressant medications suggest that taking an antidepressant, like Caplyta (lumateperone), might worsen depression and raise the risk of thoughts of suicide. The risk is highest for people ages 24 years or younger, during the first few weeks of taking the medication, and when your dose changes. If you or anyone around you notice that you have suicidal thoughts or unusual behavior (e.g., anxiety, panic attacks, difficulty sleeping, feeling angry or irritated, restlessness) while taking Caplyta (lumateperone), get medical help right away.

Antipsychotic medications like Caplyta (lumateperone) can cause a rare but life-threatening reaction called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). Symptoms can include high fever, stiff muscles, confusion, abnormal pulse or blood pressure, fast heartbeat, sweating, and heart rhythm problems. Stop taking Caplyta (lumateperone) and get emergency medical help if you experience any of those symptoms.

Caplyta (lumateperone) might cause a type of movement problem that you can't control called tardive dyskinesia. This problem might be permanent, but sometimes it can go away after the medication is stopped. Although it can happen to anyone, the risk is higher in older adults, especially older females. The risk of tardive dyskinesia and the likelihood that it'll become permanent is also higher if you take this medication for a long period of time or if you take many antipsychotic medications at the same time. Let your prescriber know if you have movements that you can't control in your face, tongue, or other body parts while taking Caplyta (lumateperone).

Caplyta (lumateperone) can cause high blood sugar levels. Although rare, sometimes high blood sugar levels can lead to coma or death. If you have diabetes or are at risk of getting diabetes, your prescriber might have you monitor your blood sugar levels regularly while taking Caplyta (lumateperone). Let your prescriber know if you experience symptoms of high blood sugar, such as frequent thirst, frequent urination, excessive hunger, or weakness.

Caplyta (lumateperone) can lower the white blood cell count in some people. White blood cells are needed to help fight against infections. When white blood cell counts are lower, your body has a hard time fighting off germs, making it easier to get an infection. Talk to your prescriber right away if you experience symptoms of an infection, such as fever, weakness, or sore throat, while taking this medication.

Caplyta (lumateperone) can cause changes in your blood pressure and heartbeat. Be very careful the first few days you're taking Caplyta (lumateperone) when you're getting up from sitting or lying down for a while, because you might feel dizzy and can possibly fall. If you've had problems in the past with your heart or heart rhythm, talk to your prescriber to see if you should take something else besides Caplyta (lumateperone). In addition, contact your care team if you feel faint or experience any abnormal heartbeats while using Caplyta (lumateperone).