Atypical antipsychotics are often prescribed to treat bipolar 1 disorder, a mental health condition that can cause episodes of depression and mania.
If you are starting a regimen of atypical antipsychotics, you may be wondering how long it takes for them to start working. The short answer is that it may take a while, depending on a number of factors.
“You may not feel much difference at first when you take a new medication,” explains Joshua Berman, MD, Psychiatrist at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. “But sometimes they’re going to take longer to work.”
How long will it take?
When it comes to atypical antipsychotics, you may not notice the full effects right away. The effectiveness of your atypical antipsychotics may come in stages, according to Berman.
Many different variables can affect how long it will take for you to feel results from your medication. For example, what other medications you’re taking can have an effect. Taking it consistently as directed is also key to seeing results.
“It can take anywhere from days to weeks to get different levels of effect,” he says.
Another factor is how much time has passed since you’ve experienced peak symptoms of your bipolar 1 disorder. If you’ve recently experienced a severe manic episode, for example, it may take longer to feel the full effects of your medication.
Benefits vs. side effects of atypical antipsychotics
When you start a regimen of atypical antipsychotics, you may notice side effects before the benefits start to emerge. This can be frustrating, and some patience may be necessary. Keep in mind that side effects may be temporary and your experience may improve over time.
Berman stresses that you should always talk to your healthcare team before making any changes to your medication. They can help you understand what is normal, or whether changes to your plan may be helpful.
He adds that there are subtle differences between different atypical antipsychotics, even though they’re all in the same class of medication. If one type of atypical antipsychotic doesn’t work for you, another might.
Joshua Berman, MD, is a Psychiatrist and Associate Professor Of Psychiatry at the Columbia University Medical Center.
References
Allergan, Inc. (2024). Vraylar- cariprazine [package insert].
MedlinePlus. (2023). Cariprazine.
Sumitomo Pharma America, Inc. (2022). Latuda- lurasidone hydrochloride tablet, film coated [package insert]. DailyMed.
Willner, K., et al. (2024). Atypical antipsychotic agents. StatPearls.
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