Trulicity (Dulaglutide) Dose Escalation
The next dose up from Trulicity 0.75 mg is 1.5 mg once weekly, administered subcutaneously. 1
Standard Dosing Progression
Trulicity (dulaglutide) is a long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes mellitus with a specific dose escalation pathway. 1
Available doses in ascending order:
- 0.75 mg once weekly (starting dose)
- 1.5 mg once weekly (standard maintenance dose)
- 3.0 mg once weekly (higher maintenance dose)
- 4.5 mg once weekly (maximum dose)
Clinical Decision-Making for Dose Escalation
When to escalate from 0.75 mg to 1.5 mg:
- If glycemic control remains inadequate after at least 4 weeks on the 0.75 mg dose
- If the patient tolerates the 0.75 mg dose without significant gastrointestinal side effects
- When HbA1c remains above individualized target despite adherence to current dose
Administration Considerations
The 1.5 mg dose should be:
- Administered once weekly on the same day each week
- Given subcutaneously in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm
- Continued for at least 4 weeks before considering further escalation to 3.0 mg if needed
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Do not escalate too rapidly - Allow at least 4 weeks at each dose level to assess glycemic response and tolerability, as GLP-1 receptor agonists require time to reach steady-state effects and for gastrointestinal adaptation. 1
Monitor for dose-dependent adverse effects - Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea typically worsen with higher doses, so ensure the patient has tolerated the 0.75 mg dose before advancing. 1