Details of Dulaglutide:

Dulaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist used to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Here are key details:

1. Dosage and Administration:
   • Typically administered via subcutaneous injection once weekly.
   • The standard dose is 1.5 mg, which can be increased to 3.0 mg or 4.5 mg if additional glycemic control is needed.
2. Mechanism of Action:
   • Mimics the effects of natural hormones (incretins) to lower blood sugar levels.
   • Stimulates insulin release, inhibits glucagon secretion, and slows gastric emptying.
3. Efficacy:
   • Reduces HbA1c levels by approximately 1-1.5%, depending on dose and patient response.
   • Promotes weight loss, with average reductions of 2-6 pounds.
4. Side Effects:
   • Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, which may diminish over time.
   • Risk of pancreatitis, although rare, is a potential concern.
5. Special Considerations:
   • Not recommended for use in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2.
   • Caution is advised in patients with a history of severe gastrointestinal disease.
6. Pediatric Use:
   • Ongoing studies, such as the one referenced on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06739122), are evaluating dulaglutide’s efficacy and safety in pediatric patients with type 2 diabetes.