Frequently Asked Questions

1. References

   Trulicity [Package Insert]. Indianapolis, IN: Eli Lilly and Company; 2014

2. What is the quantity of doses available in a Trulicity pen?

   Every Trulicity injection pen has the specific strength of medication you need for a week. You can get these pens in 0.75 mg, 1.5 mg, 3 mg, or 4.5 mg /0.5ml options. They’re typically sold in boxes containing four pens.

3. Can Trulicity treatment continue indefinitely if needed?

   Trulicity is considered safe for long-term use. If you feel improvement after using Trulicity and not facing any severe side effects, you can continue using Trulicity for as long as you want. However, if you have a thyroid lump or you are suffering from nausea or low blood sugar, you should discontinue the medication.

4. Is it safe to consume alcohol while on Trulicity treatment?

   Consuming alcohol can increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in patients. Therefore it’s advisable for patients to restrict their alcohol intake to avoid the risk of hypoglycemia.

5. Is constipation a common side effect of Trulicity?

   It’s quite common to experience stomach discomfort and constipation while using Trulicity. If you have any worries or significant stomach-related issues once you start taking Trulicity, it’s important to discuss it with your doctor.

6. How to store Trulicity?

   It is recommended to keep Trulicity in the refrigerator, but if you need to travel or can’t refrigerate it for up to 14 days, it’s okay to store it at room temperature below 86°F (30°C). Just make sure to protect it from heat sources and light.

7. What is the preferred site for giving a Trulicity injection?

   The usual spots for Trulicity injection are the back of the upper arms, the belly, or the top and outer parts of the thighs.It must be injected just under the skin into the fatty layer.

8. Is there any risk of high blood pressure while using Trulicity?

   Research has shown that Trulicity is beneficial for patients having high blood pressure. However, if you notice any unusual changes in your blood pressure after starting Trulicity, it’s important to talk to your doctor.

9. Is fatigue a common side effect of Trulicity?

   Using Trulicity can make you feel tired sometimes. Normally, for most people, these side effects usually get better within two to four weeks.

10. How long does the effect of Trulicity last in your system?

    The half life of trulicity is 5 days. This means that after 5 days only half of the dose will be left in the system and therefore will no longer have an effect on blood glucose control. Once you’ve had your last Trulicity injection, it typically takes around 25 days for the medication to completely leave your body.

11. What are the dietary guidelines for avoiding certain foods while on Trulicity?

    Trulicity can sometimes cause stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or constipation. To minimise these side effects, it is recommended to eat smaller and more frequent meals, avoiding high fat foods, etc.

12. How much time does Trulicity take to show its effects?

    The effectiveness of Trulicity can vary among patients due to several factors. Nevertheless, many individuals who initiate Trulicity treatment observe improvements in their blood glucose levels within approximately four weeks. However, it may take several more weeks before the full benefits of Trulicity become completely apparent.

13. Can Trulicity be characterized as an insulin drug?

    Trulicity is not a type of insulin. It is a GLP-1 agonist which works by stimulating glucose-dependent insulin from the pancreas and inhibiting glucagon.

14. Does Trulicity help in weight loss?

    Trulicity is a non-insulin medication primarily intended for controlling blood glucose levels, not for weight loss. It is considered a weight loss neutral medication. However, as it helps stabilise blood sugar and often accompanies recommendations for regular exercise and healthier eating habits, patients can lose weight as they get their diabetes controlled.

15. Are Trulicity and Ozempic similar medications?

    Trulicity and Ozempic are both non-insulin medications designed to regulate blood glucose levels in patients. Both medications are within a family of medications called GLP-1 agonists. While their active ingredients differ, they have similar mechanisms of action. Ozempic has demonstrated greater weight loss and more effective reduction in blood glucose levels compared to Trulicity in patients.

16. Is Trulicity meant for long-term treatment?

    Yes, it is prescribed by the doctors for long-term treatment.

17. What should I do if I miss a dose of Trulicity?

    If you miss a dose, you can inject the missed dose as long as there are at least 72 hours (3 days) or more before their next scheduled dose. However, if their next Trulicity dose is scheduled within less than three days (or 72 hours), it’s advised to skip the missed dose and proceed with the upcoming dose as usual.

18. What to do if I overdose on Trulicity?

    In case of an overdose or severe symptoms like loss of consciousness or breathing difficulties, you should immediately seek emergency medical help or contact poison control at 1-800-222-1222 without any delay.