Trulicity (dulaglutide) is an injectable medicine used to manage type 2 diabetes in adults and some children. It belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. While not specifically approved as a weight loss medication, Trulicity has been observed to promote weight loss in some individuals, leading to its off-label use for this purpose. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Trulicity, its effects on weight loss, and other important information.
What is Trulicity?
Trulicity (dulaglutide) is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It is administered via subcutaneous injection once a week using a single-dose pen. Trulicity mimics the natural incretin hormones released by the body after eating, which helps manage blood sugar levels and may support weight loss.
How Trulicity Works
Trulicity works by:
- Stimulating Insulin Release: It triggers pancreatic cells to release insulin when sugar is present in the bloodstream, helping to lower blood sugar levels.
- Blocking Glucagon: Trulicity blocks glucagon, a hormone that directs the liver to release stored sugar into the bloodstream.
- Slowing Gastric Emptying: It increases the time it takes for food to move through the stomach, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels after eating and promoting a feeling of fullness.
- Appetite Regulation: Dulaglutide activates GLP-1 receptors in brain regions involved in appetite regulation and satiety, further supporting weight loss.
Trulicity and Weight Loss
While Trulicity is not FDA-approved specifically for weight loss, its mechanisms of action can contribute to weight reduction. Some doctors may prescribe it off-label for weight loss in individuals with overweight or obesity.
Clinical Evidence
Several clinical trials have examined the effects of Trulicity on weight loss:
Read also: Choosing Between Trulicity and Victoza
- AWARD-11 Trial: This study evaluated different doses of Trulicity (1.5 mg, 3.0 mg, and 4.5 mg) over 52 weeks in patients with type 2 diabetes. The higher doses (3.0 mg and 4.5 mg) resulted in greater weight loss compared to the 1.5 mg dose. Patients in the 4.5 mg group lost an average of 4.7 kg (10.4 lbs), while the 3.0 mg group lost 4.0 kg. At 36 weeks, dulaglutide 3.0 and 4.5 mg were superior to 1.5 mg for weight change from baseline (1.5 mg, −3.1 kg; 3.0 mg, −4.0 kg [P = .001]; 4.5 mg, −4.7 kg [P < .001]).
- AWARD-6 Trial: This trial compared Trulicity (dulaglutide) 1.5 mg with liraglutide 1.8 mg over 26 weeks in patients with type 2 diabetes. Both medications resulted in modest weight loss, with Trulicity users losing an average of 2.9 kg (6.4 lbs).
- REWIND Study: This long-term study evaluated cardiovascular outcomes of Trulicity in people with type 2 diabetes, with weight loss as a secondary outcome. Over a median of 5.4 years, patients taking Trulicity experienced a modest but sustained weight loss of around 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) compared to the placebo group.
Factors Influencing Weight Loss with Trulicity
- Dosage: Higher doses of dulaglutide are associated with greater weight reduction.
- Baseline BMI: Absolute weight reduction increases with increasing BMI category, but percentage weight loss is similar between subgroups.
- Lifestyle Changes: Trulicity works best when combined with healthy lifestyle habits, such as nutritious eating and regular physical activity.
How to Use Trulicity
Trulicity is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection using a pre-filled pen. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare the injection site: Choose an area on your stomach, thigh, or upper arm. Clean the area with alcohol.
- Uncap the pen: Remove the grey base cap of the pen.
- Place the pen against the skin: Hold the pen at a 90-degree angle to your skin.
- Press the button: Once you hear a click, the injection has started. Keep the pen in place until the green bar stops moving, which takes about 5-10 seconds.
Dosage Adjustments
Trulicity is typically prescribed in doses starting at 0.75 mg once a week, with adjustments made based on the individual’s response. Your healthcare provider may recommend increasing the dose if the initial dose isn’t providing adequate blood sugar control or if you aren’t seeing the desired weight loss. The standard dosage increase is from 0.75 mg to 1.5 mg once weekly, but always follow your healthcare provider’s advice on timing and dosage adjustments.
Trulicity vs. Other Medications
Trulicity vs. Ozempic
Trulicity (dulaglutide) and Ozempic (semaglutide) are both GLP-1 receptor agonists used to treat type 2 diabetes. They work similarly by helping the body make more insulin and less glucose, slowing digestion, and lowering blood sugar levels. Studies suggest that Ozempic may be more effective for blood sugar control and weight loss compared to Trulicity. However, Trulicity may be associated with fewer side effects, leading to better adherence for some individuals.
Trulicity vs. Metformin
Metformin is typically the first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes. While both Trulicity and metformin can contribute to weight loss, they work through different mechanisms. Trulicity mimics incretin hormones, while metformin improves the body’s response to insulin and reduces glucose production in the liver.
Trulicity vs. Zepbound
Zepbound (tirzepatide) is a more recent medication that combines a GLP-1 receptor agonist with a glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP). This dual mechanism has shown superior weight loss results compared to first-generation GLP-1 drugs like Trulicity.
Read also: Using Trulicity for Weight Management
Potential Side Effects
The most common side effects of Trulicity include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Stomach discomfort
- Decreased appetite
- Indigestion
- Fatigue
These side effects are typically temporary and may subside within a few weeks of starting the medication.
Managing Side Effects
To manage side effects, consider the following tips:
- Eat blander foods
- Refrain from eating fatty, processed, or greasy foods
- Eat smaller meals or stick to smaller portion sizes
- Stay active
Serious Side Effects
In rare cases, Trulicity has been associated with serious side effects, including:
- Risk of Thyroid C-cell Tumors: Dulaglutide causes a dose-related and treatment-duration-dependent increase in the incidence of thyroid C-cell tumors in rats. Trulicity is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) and in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
- Pancreatitis: Acute pancreatitis, including fatal and non-fatal hemorrhagic or necrotizing pancreatitis, has been observed in patients treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists, including Trulicity.
- Hypoglycemia: Patients receiving Trulicity in combination with an insulin secretagogue (e.g., sulfonylurea) or insulin may have an increased risk of hypoglycemia.
- Hypersensitivity Reactions: There have been postmarketing reports of serious hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylactic reactions and angioedema) in patients treated with Trulicity.
- Acute Kidney Injury: There have been postmarketing reports of acute kidney injury in patients treated with GLP-1 RAs, including Trulicity.
- Severe Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions: Use of Trulicity has been associated with gastrointestinal adverse reactions, sometimes severe.
Precautions and Warnings
Before taking Trulicity, inform your healthcare provider if you have:
Read also: The Truth About Trulicity for Weight Loss
- A history of thyroid cancer
- A family history of thyroid cancer
- A history of pancreatitis
- Kidney problems
- Severe gastrointestinal problems
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Cost and Availability
The cost of Trulicity can vary depending on insurance coverage and pharmacy. Public or private health insurance may cover Trulicity if prescribed for diabetes but not specifically for weight loss. Check with your insurance provider for details.
tags: #Trulicity #weight #loss #information