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Dulaglutide

Aliases: Trulicity

Last verified: 2026-09-23

Approved drugStrong evidencePeptidesMedium interest

The short version

A weekly GLP-1 agonist (Fc fusion) — approved for type 2 diabetes with proven CV protection (REWIND).

Identity & type

Molecular type
analog
Origin
A weekly GLP-1 agonist (Fc fusion) — approved for type 2 diabetes with proven CV protection (REWIND).

Mechanism of action

GLP-1R agonism; long half-life via IgG4-Fc fusion.

Dosing & routes

Official / clinical context

Approved drug — indications, dosing and warnings are defined by the official label. 0.75–4.5 mg SC weekly.

Regulator-approved labeling and published study designs — never a recommendation.

Community-reported practice

0.75–4.5 mg SC weekly. Trulicity: reliable weekly glycemic control with modest weight effect; excellent tolerability and CV benefit in diabetics.

Unverified self-reports. Not medical advice. Not endorsement.

Expected effects (community)

Trulicity: reliable weekly glycemic control with modest weight effect; excellent tolerability and CV benefit in diabetics.

Protocol — official vs community

Official / label

Trulicity, for type 2 diabetes: 0.75 mg SC once weekly as the starting dose; may increase to 1.5 mg, 3 mg or 4.5 mg once weekly for additional glycemic control.

  1. 01Start: 0.75 mg once weekly
  2. 02If needed: increase to 1.5 mg once weekly (may start directly at 1.5 mg)
  3. 03If needed: 3 mg once weekly
  4. 04If needed: 4.5 mg once weekly (maximum)
  5. 05Dose increases at intervals of ≥4 weeks

Duration: Chronic. CV benefit (REWIND: ~12% MACE reduction) accrues over years.

Flat, prefilled pen — no reconstitution. Discontinuation reverses both glycemic and weight effects. Off-label for obesity mirrors the semaglutide pattern but at weaker effect sizes.

Community (anecdotal)

Mirrors the label: 0.75–4.5 mg SC weekly. Gray-market diversion is less common than for semaglutide/tirzepatide because effect on weight is comparatively modest.

Cycle:
Continuous — not cycled.
Break:
None by design; regain follows discontinuation.

In community discussions Trulicity is mostly a fallback when preferred GLP-1s are unavailable or unaffordable.

Human evidence

REWIND: −12% MACE, including primary prevention.

Preclinical evidence

The preclinical phase was completed and submitted to regulators as part of registration; pharmacology and toxicology details are part of the official label.

Known risks

  • GI side effects; MTC warning.characterized

Teal: characterized in clinical/labeling contexts. Amber: theoretical or reported outside controlled settings.

Unknowns & evidence gaps

  • Real-world data outside controlled trials

Frequently asked questions

References