What is Trulicity?
Trulicity contains the active ingredient Dulaglutid, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which is administered once a week as a subcutaneous injection. It is approved for the treatment of diabetes mellitus type 2 in adults.
Dulaglutide consists of a GLP-1 analog which is coupled to an immunoglobulin fragment. This construction extends the duration of operation to one week. The ready-to-use single dose pen makes the application particularly easy – the needle is already integrated and not visible.
Trulicity is made by Eli Lilly. The REWIND study has shown a cardiovascular benefit in patients with lower risk.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Dulaglutid
Dulaglutid acts as a long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist:
Insulin stimulation (glucose-dependent):
- Promotes insulin distribution with increased blood sugar
- No hypoglycemia risk in mono-application
Glukagon inhibition:
- Lowers the glucose secretion
- Reduces hepatic glucose production
Sustained gastric emptying:
- Flatter postprandial blood sugar tips
Appetite reduction:
- Central effect on saturation centres
- Supports weight loss
Cardiovascular protection: The REWIND study showed a reduction in severe cardiovascular events.
Who is it suitable for?
Trulicity is suitable for:
- Adults with type 2 diabetes combined with other antidiabetics
- Patients who prefer a weekly injection
- In case of insufficient control with metformin alone or in combination
- Patients with cardiovascular risk
Not suitable:
- Diabetes type 1
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Pancreatitis in Prehistory (Preview)
- Heavy gastrointestinal diseases
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Available Dosages
**Fertigpen (single dose) for subcutaneous injection:* *
- 0,75 mg once a week (start dose)
- 1.5 mg once a week
- 3.0 mg once a week
- 4.5 mg once a week (Maximaldosis)
Increasing dose:
- Start with 0.75 mg for at least 4 weeks
- Increase in 4-week intervals as required
How to Take
Application:
- Once weekly, on the same weekday
- Subcutaneous injection in belly, thighs or upper arm
- Regardless of meals and daytime
Pen application: 1. Remove cap Two. Put pen on the skin and unlock 3. Press and hold injection button 4. Click to wait (injection takes about 5 seconds) Five. Remove Pen – Needle is automatically hidden
Forget dose: Pick up within 3 days, then return to the regular weekday. More than 3 days have passed, leaving dose.
Contraindications
**Trulicity must not be applied at:* *
- hypersensitivity to dulaglutide
- Personal/family history of a medullary thyroid carcinoma
- MEN-2- Syndrome
Preview at:
- Pancreatitis in prehistory
- Heavy gastrointestinal disease
- Heavy kidney failure
- Diabetic retinopathy
Pregnant period: Contraindicated. At least 2 months before planned pregnancy.
Possible Side Effects
Very common (>10%):
- nausea
- diarrhea
- Break.
- stomach pain
Acid (1-10%):
- Loss of appetite
- fatigue
- Dyspepsie (digestion)
- Blocking
- Flatulence
- Reactions at the injection site
Occasionally:
- Pancreatitis (acute pancreatitis)
- gallstones
- Tachycardia
** Gastrointestinal complaints are the strongest at the start of therapy and dose increase. They usually improve within 2-4 weeks.
Interactions
Insulin and sulfonylureas: Hypoglycemia risk increases. Dose reduction may be necessary.
Oral medicines: Slowed gastric emptying can affect the absorption. Clinically usually not relevant.
Warfarin: Control INR at the beginning of therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is Trulicity right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.