Caplyta (Lumateperone) for Depression

Overview
Caplyta is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults and for depressive episodes associated with bipolar 1 or bipolar 2 disorder (bipolar depression) in adults. It may be used for bipolar depression as a monotherapy (used alone) or as an adjunctive (add-on) treatment with lithium or valproate. Caplyta is also known by its drug name, lumateperone.

Caplyta is an atypical antipsychotic. It is believed to work by affecting the activity of dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate in the brain. These chemicals help regulate mood, thinking, and behavior.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Caplyta is taken by mouth once daily, with or without food. It is generally taken once daily. People with moderate or severe liver problems may need a reduced dose. Caplyta should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Caplyta vary by condition:

• Schizophrenia — Somnolence/sedation (drowsiness or feeling very sleepy) and dry mouth.
• Bipolar depression — Somnolence/sedation, dizziness, nausea, and dry mouth.

Rare but serious side effects may include neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a life-threatening reaction with high fever and stiff muscles), tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements, especially of the face), hyperglycemia/diabetes mellitus (high blood sugar), dyslipidemia (abnormal cholesterol levels), weight gain, orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing), leukopenia, neutropenia, and agranulocytosis (low white blood cell counts), seizures, and trouble thinking clearly or moving normally. Elderly individuals with dementia-related psychosis are at increased risk of death and should not be treated with Caplyta. There is also a higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in young adults and children.

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Label: Caplyta — Lumateperone Capsule — DailyMed