What is Trulicity®?
Trulicity (Dulaglutide) is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved prescription medication used to manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes and for risk reduction of cardiovascular events in people with type 2 diabetes. It was approved in September 2014 and February 2020.
Manufactured by Eli Lilly, Trulicity belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. It helps regulate blood glucose levels, particularly after meals and can assist in achieving better long-term control. Although Trulicity is used to manage type 2 diabetes, it also has effects on weight management, which is why healthcare providers prescribe for its off-label use. Clinical studies have shown its effects on weight loss; it can help those with obesity.
Benefits of Trulicity®?
Trulicity (Dulaglutide) offers multiple benefits, especially for people with type 2 diabetes, and a risk reduction of cardiovascular events (heart attack or stroke) in people with type 2 diabetes. In addition to helping manage blood sugar levels as a diabetes medication, Trulicity can promote weight loss by reducing food cravings and keeping the appetite-regulating hormones stable.
In a 36-week clinical trial, people taking Dulaglutide 1.5 mg lost 3.0 kg, while people who took Dulaglutide 4.5 mg lost 4.6 kg. Eli Lilly funded many clinical trials on different patient demographics to test Dulaglutide for its effects in controlling blood sugar levels and weight loss. The researchers also observed that improvements in other health markers enhance overall health and quality of life.
How does Trulicity® work?
Trulicity works by mimicking the action of a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). Here’s how it helps control blood sugar:
Enhances Insulin Release: When blood sugar levels in the body are high, Trulicity stimulates the pancreas to release insulin. Insulin assists the body’s cells to use the glucose for energy.
Suppresses Glucagon: It lowers the release of glucagon (a hormone that increases blood sugar). The prevention of the glucagon release helps prevent the liver from producing excess glucose, which spikes the blood sugar levels.
Slows Digestion: Trulicity delays the rate at which food leaves the stomach, which can lead to smaller post-meal blood sugar spikes and reduce appetite.
These combined actions make it easier for people with Type 2 diabetes to achieve better glycemic control, and weight loss, and improve their overall metabolic health.
Dulaglutide may not work for everyone, and it is important to consult with your healthcare provider to assess which medication is best suited for you. Aayu Well Healthcare ensures thorough assessment and evaluation to build a plan tailored to your needs.
How to use it
Trulicity should be taken as instructed by a qualified healthcare provider. Trulicity is taken as a subcutaneous injection (under the skin). Common areas for injection include the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotating the injection site each week can help prevent skin irritation or infections. Store in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze. It can be kept at room temperature, up to 86°F (30°C), for up to 14 days.
Dosing
- The dose of Trulicity depends on your healthcare provider’s instructions. Please also read the pharmaceutical packaging. The typical dosing schedule for Trulicity is 0.75 mg once weekly. The doctor may increase your dose to 1.5 mg once a week and, in some cases, up to 3 mg or 4.5 mg depending on your tolerance and medical needs.
Side effects
- Trulicity is generally well-tolerated; however, side effects are still experienced. Like GLP-1 agonist medications, Trulicity mostly has gastrointestinal side effects. Common ones include: nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and reduced appetite are frequent, particularly during the initial weeks of treatment. The gastrointestinal side effects may subside as you get used to using Trulicity.Some individuals may experience serious side effects such as:
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas): If you experience severe abdominal pain or back pain that doesn’t go away could be a sign of pancreatitis.
- Gallbladder issues: If you feel a sudden pain in your upper abdomen or back it may indicate gallstones or gallbladder inflammation.
- Kidney problems: Dehydration caused by vomiting or diarrhea can lead to kidney issues.
- If side effects are severe or persistent, consult your healthcare provider for potential alternatives or adjustments in dosage.
Black Box Warning
- Trulicity carries a black box warning due to the risk of thyroid C-cell tumors observed in animal studies. While this risk has not been confirmed in humans, it’s advised not to use Trulicity if you or your family have a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience symptoms like a lump or swelling in the neck, a change in your voice (hoarseness), or difficulty swallowing.
Precautions
- Before you take Trulicity (Dulaglutide), you must inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of pancreatitis, a history of thyroid cancer, kidney disease, liver problems, or gastrointestinal issues.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not take Trulicity (Dulaglutide) because it is not known if it will harm your unborn baby or pass into your breast milk.
- Trulicity (Dulaglutide) is not for insulin-dependent diabetics (type 1 diabetes). When Trulicity (Dulaglutide) is taken with insulin and the insulin dose is reduced too quickly, it can lead to high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), which increases the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Interactions
- Certain drugs could have an interaction with Trulicity. It is important to inform your doctor about the medications and supplements you are taking. Some examples are:
- Insulin or sulfonylureas: Combining Trulicity with other diabetes medications can increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
- Oral medications: Trulicity slows gastric emptying, which may delay the absorption of certain oral medications. Discuss with your healthcare provider if other medications need timing adjustments.
- Other GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist medications: Avoid taking Trulicity with other GLP-1 receptor agonists like Liraglutide, Tirzepatide, or Semaglutide.
