Caplyta side effects and how to avoid them

Caplyta is an FDA-approved medication manufactured by Intra-Cellular Therapies, Inc. It is classed as an atypical antipsychotic medication and an antidepressant and is used for the treatment of schizophrenia or depressive episodes associated with bipolar depression. Caplyta is not approved to treat bipolar disorder. While Caplyta is generally well tolerated, there are some potential side effects that people should be aware of. The most common side effects of Caplyta include weight gain and increased cholesterol levels. Less common, but more serious side effects, can include seizures and hypoglycemia.

Learn more about the side effects of Caplyta and what you can do to avoid them.

What is Caplyta (lumateperone)?

Caplyta is the brand name for the active ingredient lumateperone. The mechanism of action of lumateperone for the treatment of schizophrenia or bipolar depression is not fully understood. However, its effectiveness could be through a combination of blocking the activity at central serotonin 5-HT2A receptors and central dopamine D2 receptors.

In clinical trials, after one week of treatment with Caplyta, patients started to show improved Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) total scores. PANSS is a scale used to measure the severity of schizophrenia symptoms. Symptoms continue to improve the longer you take the drug.

Caplyta dosage

Caplyta is available in capsule form, in the following doses: 42mg.

The recommended dosage of Caplyta is 42 mg once daily, with food, to control the symptoms of schizophrenia. Dose titration is not required. Caplyta can be taken alone or in combination with lithium or valproate for bipolar depression.

Read the medication guide provided with this medicine for the complete drug information and patient information, and always speak with your healthcare provider for medical advice about any changes to your dose so they can monitor and evaluate your condition.

Caplyta side effects

The most common possible side effects of Caplyta compared to placebo include:

  • Weight gain
  • Increase in cholesterol and triglyceride levels
  • Somnolence (sleepiness)
  • Sedation (drowsiness)
  • Dry mouth

Caplyta can cause more serious side effects, including:

  • Orthostatic hypotension and syncope – feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or faint when you stand up or get up from a lying down position
  • Tardive dyskinesia – uncontrolled muscle movements in your face such as chewing, lip-smacking, frowning, tongue movement, blinking, or eye movement
  • Tightness in your neck or throat, difficulty swallowing
  • Problems controlling your body temperature
  • Metabolic changes such as diabetes mellitus and hyperglycemia
  • Problems breathing or speaking
  • Seizures
  • High blood sugar – increased thirst and urination, dry mouth, fruity breath odor
  • Low white blood cell counts (agranulocytosis) – fever, chills, mouth sores, skin sores, sore throat, cough, trouble breathing
  • Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) – high fever, confusion, changes in your breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure, stiff muscles, and increased sweating

If you experience any of these serious side effects, stop taking Caplyta and seek medical attention immediately. You are encouraged to report adverse effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Caplyta drug interactions

Caplyta can interact with other medications including:

  • CYP3A4 inducers – carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampin, St. John’s wort
  • Moderate or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors –  fluvoxamine, verapamil, clarithromycin, grapefruit juice
  • UGT inhibitors – valproic acid, probenecid

Before taking Caplyta, be sure to tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking to ensure they are safe to take at the same time.

Caplyta warnings & precautions

Don’t take Caplyta if you:

  • Are allergic to the active ingredient lumateperone
  • Have had an allergic reaction to any of the other ingredients in Caplyta
  • Are breastfeeding or are planning to breastfeed

Talk to your doctor before using Caplyta if you:

  • Are taking any of the medications that could interact with Caplyta
  • Have difficulty swallowing
  • Have high cholesterol or triglycerides
  • Have diabetes
  • Have liver disease
  • Are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant –  babies exposed to Caplyta in the third trimester have had withdrawal symptoms and extrapyramidal symptoms after birth

You should always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication, including Caplyta, to make sure it is safe for you.

Other warnings you should know about

Caplyta has a boxed warning and older adults with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death.

Increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors in children and young adults – watch for new or worsening symptoms of depression, especially changes in mood, feelings, or thoughts.

How to avoid Caplyta side effects

The best way to avoid side effects is to take Caplyta as directed by your doctor. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and do not take more or less than prescribed.

If you experience any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They may be able to recommend ways to help reduce or prevent some of the side effects.

1. Stick to the recommended dosage

Take your prescribed dose of Caplyta that has been recommended by your healthcare professional. Do not take more or less than prescribed.

2. Monitor your blood sugar levels

If you have diabetes, it is important to monitor your blood sugar levels closely while taking Caplyta. Check your blood sugar levels as directed by your doctor and report any changes to your doctor immediately.

3. Drink plenty of fluids

Drink eight to 10 glasses of water or fluids every day to help prevent dehydration, which can make side effects worse.

4. Avoid alcohol

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Caplyta as it can increase your risk of side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and sleepiness.

5. Don’t skip meals

Eating regular meals and snacks will help to prevent low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia).

6. Check your feet

If you have diabetes, check your feet for any cuts, sores, or redness regularly. Tell your doctor if you experience any problems with your feet while taking Caplyta.

7. Know the signs and symptoms of Caplyta side effects

Signs and symptoms of side effects include drowsiness and dry mouth. If you experience any of these symptoms speak to your doctor for medical advice.

8. Monitor your weight

Caplyta may cause weight gain. If you experience this side effect while taking Caplyta, get medical advice from your doctor.

9. Tell your doctor about all medications you’re taking

Be sure to tell your doctor about all other medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as they can interact with Caplyta.

10. Get regular medical check ups

It is important to get regular medical check ups and monitor your medical conditions. Your doctor will monitor your side effects and may adjust your dose of Caplyta as needed.

Medically reviewed

A medical professional has reviewed this article.

Jamie Winn, PharmD
Jamie Winn, PharmD

Jamie Winn, PharmD

Medical Writer & Reviewer

Jamie Winn, PharmD

Medical Writer & Reviewer

Dr. Jamie Winn received his Doctor of Pharmacy in 2002 from the University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, Columbia, SC. Jamie is a medical reviewer for NiceRx.

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The content on this website is intended for information purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. The information on this website should not be relied upon and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should always speak to your doctor regarding the risks and benefits of any treatment.
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