Dulaglutide Explained: Blood Sugar Control and Side Effects

Medically Reviewed By: Dr Jana Lim | MBChB, MMed | Board-Accredited Family Physician

MBChB, MMed | Board-Accredited Family Physician

Last updated: Dec 23, 2025

Dulaglutide injection pens in different colours showing weekly treatment options for type 2 diabetes

What Is Dulaglutide?

Dulaglutide is a once-weekly prescription injection belonging to a class of medicines known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medicines mimic the action of a naturally occurring hormone that plays a role in blood sugar regulation and appetite. Other medications in this class include liraglutide, semaglutide, and tirzepatide.

Dulaglutide may be considered for patients who would benefit from additional support in managing their metabolic health, particularly when lifestyle modifications alone have not achieved the desired outcomes.

Dulaglutide Mechanism of Action: How Does It Work?

Dulaglutide helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and influences appetite through several effects:

Stimulates the pancreas to release insulin, but only when glucose levels are high.
Reduces glucagon release, a hormone that signals the liver to release stored sugar into the bloodstream.
Slows how quickly food moves from the stomach into the intestines (gastric emptying), extending feelings of fullness.
Stimulates GLP-1 receptors in the brain that control hunger, helping reduce calorie intake.

These combined actions help the body maintain more consistent glucose levels throughout the day.

Who Might Benefit from Dulaglutide?

Woman checking blood sugar with glucose monitor before dulaglutide treatment for diabetes control

Dulaglutide may be considered when:

Lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise have provided insufficient metabolic improvement
Other first-line options are contraindicated or have caused intolerable side effects
There is a clinical need for once-weekly dosing to support adherence
Your overall health profile suggests you may benefit from GLP-1 receptor activation

Dulaglutide is not suitable for everyone and requires a thorough medical evaluation before it can be prescribed.

"For patients who struggle with daily medication routines, a once-weekly injection can make a meaningful difference to consistency. I always emphasise that this works best as part of a broader approach that includes nutrition and activity." "For patients who struggle with daily medication routines, a once-weekly injection can make a meaningful difference to consistency. I always emphasise that this works best as part of a broader approach that includes nutrition and activity."

Dr Jana Lim | MBChB, MMed, Family Physician

Dr Jana Lim
MBChB, MMed, Family Physician

What Are Potential Side Effects of Dulaglutide?

As with many other medications, side effects can occur with dulaglutide, particularly when starting treatment. Commonly reported issues include:

Nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, bloating, or stomach pain.
Fatigue or low energy levels.
Mild redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site.
A slight increase in heart rate.

Most of these symptoms are temporary and tend to lessen as the body adjusts. However, seek urgent medical advice if you experience:

Severe or persistent abdominal pain.
Sudden upper stomach pain with nausea, which may suggest pancreatitis.
Fever, yellowing of the eyes or skin, or pain under the ribs, which may indicate gallbladder problems.

Disclaimer: This list does not cover all possible side effects, so always speak with a doctor if you are unsure.

When Is Dulaglutide Not Recommended?

Gloved hand holding card with type 1 diabetes text indicating dulaglutide not suitable for condition

Dulaglutide is usually not recommended for:

People with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis, as it relies on the body still producing insulin.
Anyone with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2, due to potential thyroid-related risks.
Individuals with severe digestive conditions such as gastroparesis, since dulaglutide slows stomach emptying and may worsen these symptoms.

Where Can I Get Dulaglutide in Singapore?

Dulaglutide is a prescription-only medicine in Singapore and is not available over the counter.

A consultation with a doctor is required to determine suitability based on medical history and current health status. If prescribed, follow-up appointments allow for progress monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.