Trulicity (Dulaglutide) is an FDA-approved injectable medication for managing type 2 diabetes. It is part of the GLP-1 receptor agonists class, which helps control blood sugar levels and supports weight loss efforts. If you’re purchasing Trulicity from our Canadian pharmacy online, you can save up to 70% on your prescription costs and also get secure and reliable shipping to the USA.
What is Trulicity Used for?
Trulicity is used primarily to manage type 2 diabetes. It helps lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin secretion, decreasing glucagon release, and slowing stomach emptying. It can be prescribed alone or in combination with other diabetes medications. Additionally, Trulicity is known to help with weight management in people with type 2 diabetes and has also shown benefits in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events in certain patients.
How Does Trulicity Work?
Trulicity helps regulate blood sugar levels by mimicking the action of the incretin hormone GLP-1. Not only does it increase insulin secretion as a response to meals, but it also decreases the glucose produced by the liver. Trulicity also slows gastric emptying, which helps reduce appetite and control blood sugar spikes after meals.
Trulicity Dosage
The typical Trulicity doses are as follows:
Starting Dose: 0.75 mg injected subcutaneously once weekly.
Maintenance Dose: Can be increased to 1.5 mg once weekly if needed after at least 4 weeks on the current dosage.
Maximum Dose: Up to 4.5 mg once weekly if additional blood sugar control is required.
One should rely on professional medical advice for their Trulicity dosing schedule.
How to Use a Trulicity Pen?
Trulicityis administered as an injection using a pre-filled pen. Patients should inject the medication into the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen. It is important to rotate injection sites to avoid irritation. Use an alcohol swab to clean the area and let it dry. Inject the medication by pinching the skin and inserting the needle at a 90-degree angle. Press the dose button and hold it down for a few seconds until the dose is fully delivered.Note: Trulicity can be taken at any time of the day, with or without a meal. However, it’s better to take it at the same time each week.
Trulicity Side Effects
Trulicity comes with some common side effects, including:
Nausea
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Abdominal Pain
Decreased Appetite
Less common Trulicity side effects may include:
Constipation
Gas (flatulence)
Abdominal distension
Heartburn
Tiredness or Fatigue
Fast heartbeat
Who Should Not Take Trulicity?
People with the following health conditions should not take Trulicity:
A history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
Pancreatitis
Kidney disease
Gastroparesis
Furthermore, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should also avoid this drug. Contact your healthcare provider to determine if Trulicity is a good medication for you.
Trulicity Warnings
If you notice symptoms like a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath, contact your doctor immediately. These could be signs of thyroid tumors, including thyroid cancer, which were observed in animal studies. It's unknown if Trulicity causes thyroid cancer in humans, but staying safe is always advised.
Trulicity FDA Approval
Trulicity (dulaglutide) is FDA-approved for improving blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes, either alone or in combination with other medications, and for reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease. Trulicity is not specifically FDA-approved for weight loss, but weight loss can be an additional benefit for those using it for type 2 diabetes.
It is given as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection once a week. It comes in a pre-filled pen that is ready to use. No mixing is required. You can inject Trulicity in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate injection sites and avoid injecting into the same spot each week. Always use a new needle for each injection and dispose of it properly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trulicity
What are the foods to avoid with Trulicity?
When you are using Trulicity, it's important to manage your diet to help control blood sugar levels and minimize side effects. Here are some foods you should avoid with Trulicity:
High-Sugar Foods: Sweets, sugary beverages, and desserts can cause blood sugar spikes.
Fried Foods: High in fat and calories which can worsen blood sugar control and contribute to gastrointestinal side effects.
Refined Carbohydrates: White bread, pasta, and other refined grains can quickly raise blood sugar levels.
High-Fat Foods: Foods like fatty meats and full-fat dairy products can affect overall health and may exacerbate gastrointestinal issues.
Alcohol: It can interfere with blood sugar control and increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
Consult your healthcare provider for a proper diet plan with your Trulicity medication treatment.
Is Trulicity insulin?
No, Trulicity is not insulin. It is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It works by mimicking the effects of a natural hormone to increase insulin secretion, decrease glucagon release, and slow digestion. Unlike insulin, which directly lowers blood sugar levels, Trulicity helps improve blood sugar control through these mechanisms and is used primarily for managing type 2 diabetes.
Does Trulicity cause weight loss?
Yes, Trulicity can help with weight loss. While it is not specifically FDA-approved for weight loss, many people using Trulicity for type 2 diabetes experience weight loss as a side effect. This occurs because Trulicity helps to reduce appetite and slow stomach emptying, which can lead to decreased calorie intake and weight loss. However, the degree of weight loss differs with every patient.
How long do Trulicity side effects last?
Common issues like nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting usually improve within a few days to a couple of weeks as your body adjusts to the medication. Abdominal pain and decreased appetite may also lessen over time. However, if these side effects are severe or persist beyond this period, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider.
When to increase Trulicity dose?
You can consider increasing your Trulicity dose if your blood sugar levels are not adequately controlled and your healthcare provider recommends it, typically after at least 4 weeks on the current dose.
Does Trulicity need to be refrigerated?
Yes, Trulicity should be stored in the refrigerator between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C). It can be kept at room temperature for up to 14 days before use.
How much does Trulicity cost?
The cost of Trulicity without insurance is quite high in the United States. A 30-day supply of Trulicity can cost around $1000 per month. Insurance coverage can significantly reduce these prices, but the cost remains a substantial financial burden for those without insurance.
By comparison, Trulicity is much more affordable in Canada or if you’re buying Trulicity online from a Canadian pharmacy. A month’s supply from a Canadian online pharmacy costs around $373. The lower Trulicity price in Canada is largely due to the country’s ability to negotiate drug prices with pharmaceutical companies.
Does Trulicity cause constipation?
Trulicity can cause constipation as a possible side effect. However, it is less common compared to other gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea. If you experience constipation, you should discuss it with your healthcare provider so you can manage this effect.
