What it is used for
- Type 2 diabetes (to improve blood sugar control)
- Reducing cardiovascular risk in selected patients (on a doctor's advice)
How it works
Dulaglutide mimics the natural gut hormone GLP-1, helping the body release insulin after meals, lowering sugar made by the liver, slowing stomach emptying, and reducing appetite to lower blood sugar.
How it is taken
Given as a once-weekly injection under the skin using a pre-filled pen, with or without food. Use it exactly as your doctor or diabetes nurse shows you and as the label directs; rotate injection sites and never share pens or needles.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Nausea, especially when starting
- Diarrhoea or vomiting
- Reduced appetite
- Indigestion or burping
- Injection-site reactions
Serious effects — get help
- Severe, persistent stomach pain possibly spreading to the back (possible pancreatitis) — seek urgent care
- Gallbladder problems — seek care for upper-right abdominal pain, fever, or yellow skin
- Serious allergic reaction
- A neck lump, trouble swallowing, or persistent hoarseness (rare thyroid concern) — tell your doctor
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Insulin and sulfonylureas (added low-blood-sugar risk)
- Slowed stomach emptying can affect absorption of some oral medicines
- Alcohol (affects blood sugar)
- Check all medicines with your pharmacist
Who should take care
- Tell your doctor about any history of pancreatitis or medullary thyroid cancer / MEN 2
- Start-up nausea usually eases over time; report severe symptoms
- Stay hydrated with vomiting or diarrhoea
- Generally avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding unless advised
- Report severe abdominal pain promptly