CalcMyPeptide
Weight ManagementAlso known as: Trulicity, LY2189265

Dulaglutide

Dulaglutide (Trulicity) is a powerhouse, once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist and a monumental commercial success in the diabetic space. Engineered with advanced monoclonal antibody technology rather than basic lipid chains, it is FDA-approved for aggressive glycemic control and profound cardiovascular risk reduction in Type 2 diabetics. Despite older origins, it remains a clinical juggernaut.

Reviewed by CalcMyPeptide Editorial Team
Last updated: April 2026Evidence: Strong1 peer-reviewed citation

Quick Stats

Half-Life~5 days
Dose Range0.75-4.5 mg/week
Frequency1× weekly
Vial Sizes1.5 mg, 3 mg, 4.5 mg
Bioavailability~65% (SC)
Year Developed2014

Scientific Data

Molecular Formula
GLP-1 analogue–IgG4 Fc fusion
Molecular Weight
~59,669 Da
CAS Number
923950-08-7
Developer
Eli Lilly and Company

Mechanism of Action

Dulaglutide (Trulicity®) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist fused to a modified IgG4-Fc antibody fragment, giving it a half-life of ~5 days and enabling once-weekly dosing. It stimulates insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite via hypothalamic GLP-1 receptors. The AWARD trial program and REWIND cardiovascular trial confirmed significant HbA1c reduction and 12% reduction in cardiovascular events. Weight loss is modest (2–4 kg) compared to semaglutide — it is primarily a T2D agent.

Source: PMID: 25236860 (AWARD trials)

Dosing Protocol

Typical Dose0.75-4.5 mg/week
Frequency1× weekly
Half-Life~5 days
Common Vial Sizes1.5 mg, 3 mg, 4.5 mg

Dosing Protocols

Starting Dose

Dose
0.75 mg
Frequency
Once weekly (SC)
Note: Standard starting dose for T2D; well tolerated.

Maximum Dose

Dose
4.5 mg
Frequency
Once weekly (SC)
Note: Higher dose approved in select markets for additional weight loss benefit.

Administration

Route
Subcutaneous injection (pre-filled pen)
Timing
Same day each week. Any time of day, with or without food.
Fasting Required?
No — food timing not critical

Expected Timeline

Weeks 1-4
HbA1c begins declining. Mild appetite suppression and weight loss.
Months 3-6
Stabilised glycaemic control. Average 2-4 kg weight loss at standard dose.

Who Is It For?

Type 2 Diabetes

High

FDA-approved (Trulicity). REWIND trial: 12% CV event reduction. Excellent for T2D patients with CV risk.

Weight Management

Moderate

Modest weight loss vs semaglutide/tirzepatide — more of a metabolic benefit than an obesity treatment.

Reconstitution Example

Vial
1.5 mg
Water
0.5 mL
Concentration
3 mg/mL
Per Unit (100u syringe)
30 mcg
Dose of 750 mcg = 25 units on a 100-unit insulin syringe
🧮 Calculate Your Exact Dulaglutide Dose →

Safety & Considerations

FDA-approved. Contraindicated in MTC/MEN 2 history. Common: nausea, diarrhea, vomiting (usually transient). Lower weight loss than semaglutide — typically not used as primary obesity treatment.

Regulatory & Legal Status

FDA Status (US)
Research Only
WADA Status (2026)
Not Listed

Not currently on the WADA 2026 Prohibited List. Policies may change — verify before competition.

Classification

Research Chemical

US Compounding: Not eligible / not available

⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only and may not reflect the most current regulatory updates. Always verify with official FDA, WADA, and jurisdiction-specific sources before use.

Dosing Quick Reference

Dulaglutide— Dosing Guide
Dose Range
0.75-4.5 mg/week
Half-Life
~5 days
Frequency
1× weekly
Route
Subcutaneous
1.5 mg vial3 mg vial4.5 mg vial
💧 0.5 mL BAC water📐 3 mg/mL concentration💉 30 mcg/unit (100u syringe)
Weight Managementcalcmypeptide.com

Frequently Asked Questions

How does dulaglutide compare to semaglutide for weight loss?▼
Dulaglutide produces modest weight loss (~2-4 kg at 1.5 mg). Semaglutide at 2.4 mg (Wegovy) produces 15-17% body weight loss. For weight management, semaglutide is significantly more effective.
What is the maximum dulaglutide dose?▼
1.5 mg/week is the standard approved dose. A 3 mg and 4.5 mg dose has been approved in some markets for enhanced glycaemic control.

References

  1. Gerstein HC et al. “"Dulaglutide and cardiovascular outcomes (REWIND)".” The Lancet (2019). PMID: 31189511

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