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Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Dulaglutide Auto-Injector (DULAGLUTIDE - INJECTION)

For diabetes.

Brand Name(s): Trulicity

Generic Name: Dulaglutide

Instructions

This medicine is injected into the skin. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist where on your body this medicine can be injected and how to inject it.

The liquid should be clear.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Keep this medicine in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.

Injecting cold drug may be uncomfortable.

Discard unused medicine after 14 days at room temperature.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.

Change the location of the injection each time. Choose a location at least 1 inch from the last injection.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is more than 3 days, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal dosing schedule.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

This medicine may cause low blood sugar. Eat regular meals and exercise as instructed by your doctor. Tell your doctor if you have symptoms of low blood sugar such as nausea, sweating, cold skin, fast heartbeat, hunger, and irritability.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Do not use more than 1 dose each week.

Cautions

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

This medicine may increase the risk of cancer. Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks.

Monitor your blood sugar as instructed by your doctor.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet showing that you are diabetic.

Carry glucose tablets or hard candy with you in case you experience low blood sugar from this medicine.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • pain in the abdomen
  • decreased appetite
  • diarrhea
  • lack of energy and tiredness
  • nausea and vomiting

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • back pain
  • blurry vision
  • confusion
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • fast, irregular, or slow heartbeat
  • unusual or long-lasting hoarseness
  • signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
  • unusual growth or lump on the neck
  • shakiness
  • shortness of breath
  • severe stomach or bowel pain
  • difficulty swallowing
  • persistent or unusual thirst
  • severe or persistent vomiting

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.