Dulaglutide
Dulaglutide (GLP-1 receptor agonist)
Also known as: Trulicity
A once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist for type 2 diabetes with demonstrated cardiovascular risk reduction.
Overview
Dulaglutide is a once-weekly GLP-1 agonist fused to an antibody fragment for an extended half-life. It is approved for type 2 diabetes and showed cardiovascular benefit in the REWIND trial across a broad primary-prevention population.
Mechanism of action
Activates the GLP-1 receptor to enhance glucose-dependent insulin release, suppress glucagon, and slow gastric emptying.
Key studies & citations
- Human2019
Dulaglutide and cardiovascular outcomes in type 2 diabetes (REWIND): a double-blind, randomised placebo-controlled trial
9,901 participants (only about a third with prior cardiovascular disease), median 5.4 years: MACE in 12.0% on dulaglutide vs 13.4% on placebo (HR 0.88; p=0.026).
The Lancet - Human2014
Once-weekly dulaglutide versus once-daily liraglutide in metformin-treated patients with type 2 diabetes (AWARD-6): a randomised, open-label, phase 3, non-inferiority trial
599 patients: weekly dulaglutide 1.5 mg was noninferior to daily liraglutide 1.8 mg for HbA1c reduction at 26 weeks.
The Lancet
Frequently asked questions
Is dulaglutide used for weight loss?
Its approval is for type 2 diabetes. Weight reduction occurs but is generally smaller than with semaglutide or tirzepatide.