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. Read the package leaflet before use.