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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: Feb 25, 2026
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:

  1. Stimulates the pancreas to release insulin, but only when glucose levels are high.
  2. Reduces glucagon release, a hormone that signals the liver to release stored sugar into the bloodstream.
  3. Slows how quickly food moves from the stomach into the intestines (gastric emptying), extending feelings of fullness.
  4. 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.

Dr Jana Lim

"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

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:

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

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

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

When Is Dulaglutide Not Recommended?

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.

Included With Your Treatment

As part of our weight loss programme, you will receive complimentary InBody body composition analysis during follow-up visits to monitor changes in fat mass, muscle mass preservation, and your overall progress.

Where Can I Test for Diabetes Near Me?

Singapore Women's Clinic at Camden Medical Centre in Orchard

Address

1 Orchard Boulevard, #05-09, Camden Medical Centre, S248649

Parking

Camden Medical Centre Carpark

MRT Access

Orchard Boulevard (TE13): 2-minute walk

Orchard (NS22): 8-minute walk

Opening Hours

Mon - Fri: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Sat: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Sun & PH: Closed

Singapore Women's Clinic at Anson House in Tanjong Pagar

Address

72 Anson Rd, #01-02, Anson House, S079911

Parking

Anson House Carpark

MRT Access

Tanjong Pagar (EW15): 4-minute walk

Opening Hours

Mon - Fri: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Sat: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Sun & PH: Closed

Singapore Women's Clinic at CPF Jurong Service Centre

Address

21 Jurong Gateway Rd, #02-08, CPF Jurong Service Centre, S608546

  • Enter via the Office Lobby, beside POSB bank
  • Go straight in, take lift to level 2

Parking

Blk 132 Jurong Gateway Rd (Multi-storey Car Park)

MRT Access

Jurong East (EW24 / NS1): Exit D (5-min walk)

Opening Hours

Mon - Fri: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Sat: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Sun & PH: Closed

Consult Our Friendly Doctors on Diabetes Management Today

Woman consulting female doctor for dulaglutide for type 2 diabetes management in Singapore
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