Dulaglutide
Pronounced
"DOO-la-GLOO-tide"
Uses
Dulaglutide is used with a proper diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs, and sexual function problems. This medication is also used to lessen the risk of a major cardiovascular event (such as heart attack or stroke) in people who already have, or are at high risk for heart/blood vessel disease.
Dulaglutide is similar to a natural hormone in your body (incretin). It works by causing insulin release in response to high blood sugar (such as after a meal) and by decreasing the amount of sugar your liver makes.
Dulaglutide is not a substitute for insulin if you need insulin treatment.
Warning
This medication can cause a certain type of thyroid tumor (thyroid C-cell tumors) in rats. It is unknown if this medication can cause similar tumors in humans. Talk with your doctor about the benefits and risks of treatment with this medication. Do not use this medication if you have a certain inherited disease (multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 or MEN 2) or if you have a personal/family history of a certain type of cancer (medullary thyroid carcinoma). While using this medication, tell your doctor right away if you notice any signs or symptoms of thyroid tumors, including unusual growth or lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, unusual/lasting hoarseness.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide and Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using dulaglutide and each time you get a refill. Ask your health care professional how to prepare and use this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Inject this medication under the skin as directed by your doctor, usually once every 7 days. The injection is given in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. It may be used with or without meals. The dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response to treatment. Your doctor will start you on a low dose first to decrease your risk of stomach/abdominal side effects, and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
Before using, check this product for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Before injecting each dose, clean the skin you are going to inject into (the injection site) with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin. To lessen bruising, do not rub the injection site after a shot. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
If you are also using insulin, give dulaglutide and insulin as separate injections. Do not mix them. You may inject these medications in the same area of the body, but the injection sites should not be next to each other.
Do not share your pen device with another person, even if the needle is changed. You may give other people a serious infection, or get a serious infection from them.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it on the same day each week. Mark your calendar with a reminder. Carefully follow the medication treatment plan, meal plan, and exercise program your doctor has recommended.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse (your blood sugar is too high or too low).