Dulaglutide
Nursing pharmacology study reference (NCLEX-style monograph). Numeric values are standard teaching ranges for study and must be verified against current manufacturer labeling before clinical use. This is educational content, not prescribing guidance.
Dulaglutide (brand name Trulicity) — Antidiabetic; GLP-1 receptor agonist.
Identification
- Therapeutic class: Antidiabetic.
- Pharmacologic class: GLP-1 receptor agonist.
Pharmacology
- Mechanism of action: Same as semaglutide.
- Onset / peak / duration: Weekly SubQ; steady effect after titration.
- Half-life / therapeutic level: Half-life about 5 days; no routine level.
Clinical use
- Indications: Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular risk reduction.
- Usual dose, route, frequency: SubQ 0.75 mg weekly, up to 4.5 mg weekly.
- Maximum dose / adjustments: Titrate for GI tolerance.
Safety
- Contraindications: Medullary thyroid carcinoma history, MEN 2.
- Black box warning: Thyroid C-cell tumor risk (rodents).
- Interactions: Delayed gastric emptying, secretagogues and insulin (hypoglycemia).
- Pregnancy / lactation: Discontinue.
- High-alert: No.
Adverse effects
- Common side effects: Nausea, diarrhea, decreased appetite.
- Serious effects to report: Pancreatitis, gallbladder disease.
- Antidote / reversal: None.
Nursing process
- Assessment before administration: Thyroid and pancreatitis history.
- Interventions during therapy: Single-use pen; rotate sites.
- Monitor: A1c, weight, GI tolerance.
- Evaluation / expected outcome: Glycemic control.
Patient teaching
- Patient teaching: Weekly injection on the same day.
- Notify provider if: Severe abdominal pain, neck lump.
- Administration tips: SubQ; rotate sites; any time of day.