Dulaglutide

**Semantic type:** Pharmacologic Substance

**Definition:** A glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that is 90% homologous to native human GLP-1 (7-37) and is composed of a dipeptidyl peptidase-IV-protected GLP-1 analog covalently linked to a human immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)-Fc heavy chain, with antihyperglycemic activity. Upon administration, dulaglutide binds to and activates GLP-1 receptors, thereby increasing intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) in pancreatic beta cells. This increases glucose-dependent insulin release. Dulaglutide also reduces the elevated glucagon secretion by inhibiting alpha cells of the pancreas and slows gastric emptying. Altogether this lowers the postprandial glucose level. GLP-1 is normally secreted by L cells of the gastrointestinal (GI) mucosa in response to a meal to normalize blood glucose levels.

**Synonyms:** - DULAGLUTIDE - LY2189265 - Trulicity