Trulicity (dulaglutide) is administered once weekly for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. As a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, this medication offers a convenient dosing schedule that differs from many daily diabetes treatments. Understanding the correct frequency and timing of Trulicity injections is essential for optimal glycaemic control and medication adherence. This article explains the once-weekly dosing regimen, what to do if you miss a dose, how to adjust your injection day safely, and answers common questions about Trulicity administration frequency. Always follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions regarding your individual treatment plan.

How Often Do You Take Trulicity?

Trulicity (dulaglutide) is administered once weekly for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. This medication is not suitable for people with type 1 diabetes or for treating diabetic ketoacidosis. The once-weekly dosing schedule differs from many other diabetes medications that require daily administration. The medication comes in a pre-filled, single-use pen that delivers a subcutaneous injection, typically into the abdomen or thigh. The back of the upper arm can also be used, but this site is usually recommended when someone else is administering the injection for you.

The standard dosing frequency remains consistent regardless of the dose strength prescribed. Whether you are taking 0.75 mg, 1.5 mg, 3 mg, or 4.5 mg, the injection is always given once weekly. This weekly schedule may help with medication management, as you need to remember your injection only once per week rather than daily.

It is important to establish a regular day of the week for your injection to maintain consistent therapeutic levels in your body. Many patients find it helpful to choose a day that fits naturally into their routine, such as the same day they attend a weekly appointment or a specific day off work. You may take Trulicity at any time of day, with or without food.

The once-weekly dosing is possible due to dulaglutide's pharmacological properties. As a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, it has a long half-life of approximately five days, allowing it to remain active in the body throughout the week. This extended duration of action helps maintain blood glucose control whilst stimulating insulin secretion and suppressing glucagon release in a glucose-dependent manner.

Understanding Your Trulicity Dosing Schedule

Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate starting dose and schedule based on your individual clinical needs, current glycaemic control, and other medications you may be taking. The typical starting dose is 0.75 mg once weekly, which may be increased to 1.5 mg after at least four weeks if additional glycaemic control is needed. For some patients requiring further glucose reduction, doses can be escalated to 3 mg or 4.5 mg, with at least four weeks between dose increases.

When initiating Trulicity, it is advisable to choose a consistent day and time that aligns with your lifestyle. Whilst the time of day is flexible, maintaining the same weekly schedule helps establish a routine and reduces the likelihood of missed doses. Some patients prefer morning injections before breakfast, whilst others find evening administration more convenient. The medication's efficacy is not affected by the time of day you inject.

The injection technique is straightforward, as the pen is designed for ease of use. The device does not require manual needle attachment or dose dialling. For specific instructions on how to use the pen, always refer to the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions for Use that come with your medication. Rotating injection sites within the same body region (abdomen, thigh, or upper arm when administered by someone else) helps prevent lipodystrophy and ensures consistent absorption.

Patients should store unused Trulicity pens in the refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C, in the original carton to protect from light. Once removed from refrigeration, the pen may be kept at room temperature (not exceeding 30°C) for up to 14 days. Never freeze Trulicity, and discard any pens that have been frozen. Each pen is single-use only and should be disposed of safely in a sharps container after administration. You can obtain a sharps bin from your GP, pharmacy or local council, and return it according to local arrangements. Never share your pen with anyone else, even if the needle has been changed.

What Happens If You Miss a Trulicity Dose?

If you miss your scheduled Trulicity dose, the action you should take depends on how much time remains until your next scheduled dose. According to the MHRA-approved prescribing information, if there are at least three days (72 hours) until your next scheduled dose, you should administer the missed injection as soon as possible. Then take your next dose on your usual scheduled day.

However, if there are fewer than three days until your next scheduled dose, you should skip the missed dose entirely and wait until your next regularly scheduled injection day. Do not take two doses within 3 days of each other, as this increases the risk of adverse effects, particularly gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Taking two doses close together does not provide additional benefit and may cause unnecessary side effects.

Missing occasional doses may affect your blood glucose control, potentially leading to elevated blood sugar levels. If you find yourself frequently forgetting doses, consider implementing reminder strategies such as setting a weekly alarm on your mobile phone, using a medication reminder app, or linking your injection to a regular weekly activity. Some patients find it helpful to keep their Trulicity pen in a visible location (whilst maintaining proper storage conditions) as a visual prompt.

If you have missed multiple doses or are uncertain about when to resume treatment, contact your GP or diabetes specialist nurse for guidance. They can advise on the safest way to restart your medication and may want to monitor your blood glucose levels more closely during this period. Consistent adherence to your weekly dosing schedule is essential for optimal diabetes management and reducing the risk of long-term complications associated with poor glycaemic control.

Can You Change When You Take Trulicity?

Yes, you can change the day of the week you take Trulicity, provided you follow specific guidelines to maintain safety and efficacy. If you need to alter your injection day, ensure that at least three days (72 hours) have passed since your last dose before administering the next injection. This minimum interval prevents overlapping therapeutic levels that could increase the risk of side effects.

There are several legitimate reasons why patients may need to adjust their dosing day. Changes in work schedules, travel plans, medical appointments, or personal circumstances may make your original injection day less convenient. For instance, if you initially chose Monday but find weekend administration more practical, you can make this adjustment safely by following the three-day rule.

To change your injection day, plan the transition carefully. For example, if you normally inject on Monday and wish to switch to Friday, you could take your Monday dose as usual, then wait until Friday (four days later) for your next injection. From that point forward, Friday becomes your new regular injection day. It is advisable to inform your healthcare team of any permanent changes to your dosing schedule, particularly if you use a repeat prescription service or diabetes monitoring programme.

Temporary adjustments may also be necessary when travelling across time zones or during periods of illness. If you are travelling internationally, try to maintain your weekly schedule as closely as possible, adjusting for time differences as needed. When travelling, carry your Trulicity pen in hand luggage (not checked luggage) when flying, along with a letter from your doctor explaining your need for injectable medication. Use an insulated pouch for storage and remember the 14-day room-temperature limit.

During illness, particularly if you are experiencing vomiting or reduced food intake, you may need to temporarily withhold Trulicity. If you are unable to keep fluids down or are severely unwell, pause your Trulicity, monitor your blood glucose (and ketones if advised), maintain hydration if possible, and seek medical advice. You can restart Trulicity when you are eating and drinking normally again.

Common Questions About Trulicity Frequency

Can I take Trulicity more frequently than once weekly? No, Trulicity is specifically formulated and licensed for once-weekly administration only. Taking it more frequently does not improve diabetes control and significantly increases the risk of adverse effects, particularly severe gastrointestinal symptoms. The risk of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) may also increase, especially if you are taking other glucose-lowering medications such as insulin or sulfonylureas. Always adhere to the prescribed weekly schedule.

How long does it take for Trulicity to work? Whilst Trulicity begins working shortly after injection, reaching steady-state therapeutic levels typically takes approximately four to five weeks of consistent weekly dosing. You may notice some improvement in blood glucose levels within the first few weeks, but the full therapeutic effect develops gradually. This is why dose adjustments are not recommended more frequently than every four weeks. Your healthcare provider will monitor your HbA1c levels, usually after three months of treatment, to assess the medication's effectiveness.

What if I need to take Trulicity at different times on my injection day? The specific time of day you inject Trulicity can vary from week to week without affecting its efficacy. Unlike some medications that require precise timing, Trulicity's long duration of action means that variations of several hours on your injection day do not compromise blood glucose control. However, maintaining a consistent day of the week is more important than the exact time.

Should I continue Trulicity if I experience side effects? Gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, diarrhoea, and reduced appetite are common when starting Trulicity but typically diminish over several weeks as your body adjusts. However, contact your GP or diabetes nurse if you experience severe or persistent symptoms. If you develop severe abdominal pain that may radiate to your back (with or without vomiting), stop taking Trulicity and seek urgent medical advice as this could indicate pancreatitis. Also seek medical attention for signs of serious allergic reactions or gallbladder problems. Never discontinue Trulicity without medical guidance, as abrupt cessation may lead to deterioration in glycaemic control.

If you experience any suspected side effects, you can report them via the Yellow Card Scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk or via the Yellow Card app.

Frequently Asked Questions