What it is
Dulaglutide is a weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist sold as Trulicity. It comes in a single-use pen with a hidden needle.
It helps lower blood sugar by boosting insulin release when glucose is high, reducing glucagon, and slowing stomach emptying. It is a diabetes medicine and is not approved for weight loss, though some people lose weight while taking it.
US regulatory status
FDA-approved (Trulicity) for type 2 diabetes in adults and children 10 and older, and to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes who have heart disease or risk factors. It is not FDA-approved for weight management.
What the research shows
Dulaglutide was studied in the AWARD trial program and the REWIND cardiovascular outcomes trial. These showed lower A1C than placebo and several comparison drugs, and REWIND showed a reduction in major cardiovascular events in a broad group of adults with type 2 diabetes. Weight loss seen in trials was modest.
How it is given
Weekly subcutaneous injection (single-dose pen)
Commonly reported side effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Decreased appetite
- Indigestion
Questions to ask your provider
- Is this medicine a good fit for my health history, including any thyroid, pancreas, gallbladder or kidney problems?
- How should I handle stomach side effects, and which symptoms mean I should call you right away?
- Does this interact with my other medicines, especially insulin, sulfonylureas or birth control pills?