Key takeaways
Caplyta (lumateperone) and Vraylar (cariprazine) are both atypical antipsychotics used to treat schizophrenia and bisorder in adults. However, they have some differences. Caplyta is specifically approved for bipolar depression, while Vraylar is approved for manic or mixed episodes of bipolar I disorder and can also be used as an add-on for major depressive disorder (MDD). Caplyta is typically taken as a 42 mg dose once daily, whereas Vraylar starts at 1.5 mg daily and can be increased up to 6 mg depending on the condition being treated. Both medications are only available in a branded version. Common side effects of Caplyta include drowsiness, nausea, and dizziness, while Vraylar may cause uncontrolled muscle movements, headache, and restlessness. Both medications can cause serious side effects like neuroleptic malignant syndrome and tardive dyskinesia. Caplyta is less likely to cause weight gain compared to many other antipsychotics, but Vraylar is known for leading to minimal weight gain.
