Trulicity is a medication that contains dulaglutide and is used to help control blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. Trulicity contains a synthetic version of the GLP-1 hormone, which has positive effects on regulating blood sugar in the body. Trulicity may be prescribed as part of an appropriate treatment plan by your doctor. The dosage and frequency of use of the medication may vary depending on the individual’s specific condition and treatment needs. Therefore, it is always important to follow your doctor’s instructions before using Trulicity or any other medication.
Trulicity’s Uses
Trulicity is used in the treatment of the following conditions:
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Reducing the Risk of Heart and Vascular Diseases
How to Use Trulicity
Trulicity should be used according to the instructions provided by your doctor:
Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions: You should only use Trulicity as recommended by your doctor.
Injection Site: Injections are usually recommended to be done in the abdominal area. Alternatively, the upper arm or thigh areas can also be used.
Timing: Trulicity is usually injected once a week on the same day and at the same time.
Preparation: Before administering the injection, prepare the medication with the Trulicity pen or syringe.
Injection: Inject Trulicity into the chosen injection site as recommended by your doctor.
Waste Disposal: Dispose of the used injection needle safely and follow the waste disposal procedures recommended by your doctor or pharmacy.
Monitoring: During the use of Trulicity, you should regularly visit your doctor at the intervals determined by them and monitor your blood sugar levels.
Side Effects of Trulicity
Some of the side effects that may occur during the use of Trulicity include:
- nausea, vomiting
- diarrhea, abdominal pain
- headache
- decreased appetite
- low blood sugar
In addition, more serious side effects that may be associated with the use of Trulicity can rarely occur:
- pancreatitis
- thyroid cancer
- elevated creatinine levels
Interactions with Other Medications
Trulicity can interact with other medications:
- Sulfonylurea Derivative Drugs
- Insulin
- Oral Antidiabetic Drugs
- Antibiotics
Conditions in Which Trulicity Should Not Be Used
In certain conditions, caution should be exercised or the medication should not be used before using Trulicity:
Hypersensitivity or Allergy: If you have hypersensitivity or a known allergy to Trulicity or any medication containing dulaglutide, you should not use these medications.
Type 1 Diabetes: Trulicity is not used in the treatment of type 1 diabetes.
History of Diabetic Ketoacidosis: Individuals with a history of diabetic ketoacidosis should not use Trulicity.
Liver Problems: Individuals with severe liver problems or liver dysfunction should consult their doctors before using Trulicity.
Kidney Problems: Individuals with severe kidney problems or kidney dysfunction should consult their doctors before using Trulicity.
Post-Liver or Kidney Transplant: Patients who have undergone liver or kidney transplants should consult their doctors regarding the use of Trulicity.
Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Individuals with a history or current condition of inflammatory bowel disease should consult their doctors before using Trulicity.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should discuss with your doctor before using Trulicity.
Urinary Retention: Individuals with urinary problems or urinary retention should consult their doctors before using Trulicity.
Precautions to Take When Using Trulicity
There are some important points to consider when using Trulicity:
Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions: You should carefully follow the instructions given by your doctor regarding the use of Trulicity.
Monitor Blood Sugar: Your doctor may ask you to monitor your blood sugar levels.
Other Medications and Supplements: Other medications, vitamins, supplements, or herbal products you are taking may interact with Trulicity.
Watch for Low Blood Sugar: Trulicity can lower blood sugar levels when used with insulin or sulfonylurea derivative drugs.
Diet and Exercise: Trulicity should be used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should discuss with your doctor before using Trulicity.
Monitor Side Effects: If you notice any side effects or changes during the use of Trulicity, you should immediately inform your doctor.
Use of Machinery or Vehicles: Trulicity can cause dizziness or drowsiness.
Doctor Check-ups: Regular visits to your doctor at the intervals determined by them are important.
Availability of Trulicity in Turkey
Trulicity is available in Turkey but is not covered by the Social Security Institution (SGK) for reimbursement. The retail price for a package of Trulicity Ready-to-Use Injection Solution Pen 0.75 and 1.5 mg/0.5 ml (4*0.5 ml) is 5,697.36 TL.
