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Trulicity Side Effects: What Are They and How Long Do They Last
- Posted On: 12 Sep, 2025
- 13 Aug, 2026
- 20 min read
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Trulicity (Dulaglutide) is a once-weekly injection that helps lower blood sugar levels and improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes.Starting From $294.99
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Trulicity is a non-insulin injectable medication that is used to treat type 2 diabetes. It is used for treating type 2 diabetes and helping patients manage their weight. It also helps lower patients’ A1C and manage their blood sugar levels. Trulicity is the branded form of the active ingredient dulaglutide. It has been used for many patients and has been studied in several clinical trials. Several possible side effects of taking the medication have been found during that time. Patients planning to take this medication should understand these side effects before starting their doses. This article explains the side effects of Trulicity and how long they may last.
Disclaimer: The information shared here is intended for learning purposes and is not a substitute for advice from a healthcare provider. Patients should consult their healthcare provider before making any medication changes.
- Trulicity (Dulaglutide) is a once-weekly injection that helps lower blood sugar levels and improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes.Starting From $294.99
10% Off On Your First Order
Click on the Copy Code button to copy your code.
No Expiry
Exclusive On Duty Free Meds Only
- Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, and abdominal pain - usually appearing in the first few days and resolving within a few weeks.
- Serious side effects - like pancreatitis, kidney issues, and thyroid tumors - infrequently occur and require immediate medical attention.
- Side effect severity may increase with higher doses or when combined with other diabetes medications like insulin or sulfonylureas.
- Long-term risks include gallbladder disease and thyroid tumors (particularly in patients with relevant personal or family history).
- Proper use involves weekly injections and rotating injection sites. It also includes staying hydrated and avoiding unhealthy foods and alcohol.
- Emergency care should be obtained for symptoms like severe stomach pain or breathing issues. This is also the case for vision changes.
- Routine monitoring is important for long-term safety.
Common Side Effects of Trulicity
There are several side effects of Trulicity that have been commonly reported by those taking the medication. These symptoms are generally not serious and may include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Decreased appetite
- Pain in the abdomen
- Indigestion
Clinical trials have been done studying the frequency of these side effects. The studies found that anywhere from 8% to 29% of patients reported feeling some nausea while taking the medication. This experience occurred within the first few days of taking the medication and only lasted a couple of weeks in most cases. Increased doses may also lead to more side effects. A 52-week study also showed that overall common side effects were only experienced by 5% or more of patients.
Common Side Effects
| Side Effect | When It Appears | How Long it Usually Lasts |
| Indigestion and GI Issues | Within 24 to 48 hours | Between two and four weeks (tolerance building usually begins within the first 7–14 days of taking the medication) |
| Nausea or Vomiting | Within 24 to 48 hours | Between two and four weeks (tolerance building usually begins within the first 7–14 days of taking the medication) |
| Pain in the Abdomen | Within 24 to 48 hours | Between two and four weeks (tolerance building usually begins within the first 7–14 days of taking the medication) |
| Fatigue | Within 24 to 48 hours | Between two and four weeks (tolerance building usually begins within the first 7–14 days of taking the medication) |
| Diarrhea | Within 24 to 48 hours | Between two and four weeks (tolerance building usually begins within the first 7–14 days of taking the medication) |
| Appetite Loss | Within 24 to 48 hours | Between two and four weeks (tolerance building usually begins within the first 7–14 days of taking the medication) |
Serious and Uncommon Side Effects
There are some more risky side effects that patients can develop from taking Trulicity. It is very unlikely that patients will actually experience any of these side effects. These side effects may include:
- Severe and persistent stomach pains
- Pancreatitis
- Kidney problems (increased risk for dehydrated patients)
- Swelling of the face, mouth, or throat
- Troubles swallowing
- Troubles breathing
- Itching
- Allergic reactions
- Thyroid tumors (black box warning)
- Fever
- Gallbladder problems
- Hypoglycemia (increased risk when combined with other diabetes medications)
- Vision changes (from worsening diabetic retinopathy related to rapid glucose improvement)
Serious and Uncommon Side Effects
| Side Effect | When It Appears | How Long it Usually Lasts |
| Severe and Persistent Stomach Pains | Usually within 24 to 48 hours of first injection or dose increase | May persist (medical evaluation needed) |
| Pancreatitis | May occur anytime during treatment | May persist (medical evaluation needed) |
| Kidney Problems (Secondary Increased Risk for Dehydrated Patients) | May occur anytime during treatment (usually occurs after dehydration from gastrointestinal side effects) | Usually improves after hydration and electrolytes have been restored (may not be immediate) |
| Swelling of the Face, Mouth, or Throat | When a severe allergic reaction occurs | After allergic reaction is treated and Trulicity is stopped |
| Troubles Swallowing | May occur anytime during treatment | Medical attention is needed before it may resolve (can be an indication of a severe allergic reaction or thyroid tumors) |
| Troubles Breathing | May occur anytime during treatment | Medical attention is needed before it may resolve (can be an indication of a severe allergic reaction, thyroid tumor, or other serious issue) |
| Itching | Usually within 24 to 48 hours after injection | Usually within hours or days after the injection (immediate medical attention should be sought if other signs of an allergic reaction emerge) |
| Allergic Reactions | Usually within a few hours of injection | Medical attention is needed before it may resolve (immediate medical attention required) |
| Thyroid Tumors | No specific timeline available since this was only a possible risk found in animal studies | No specific timeline available since this was only a possible risk found in animal studies |
| Fever | May occur anytime during treatment | May persist (immediate medical attention is needed since this could be an indication of a more serious underlying condition) |
| Gallbladder Problems | Most likely to occur within the first six to 12 months of treatment | Some time after the medication is stopped and appropriate treatment is given |
| Hypoglycemia | When this medication is combined with the use of other certain diabetes medications (like insulin, glinides, or sulfonylureas) | After necessary dosing adjustments are made by the healthcare provider |
| Worsening Diabetic Retinopathy | Usually within the beginning weeks of treatment or dose increases | Stable glucose control is needed to stop progression (see a healthcare provider right away) |
| Injection Site Reactions | Within 24 Hours of Injection | May persist (medical evaluation needed) |
How Long Side Effects Last (Weekly Breakdown)
Week 1: Common Side Effects May Develop
The most common side effects typically begin during the first 24-48 hours after the first injection. Patients may experience :
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain or stomach discomfort
- Fatigue or low energy
- Decreased appetite
- Mild itching or injection-site reactions (redness, swelling, or irritation)
Some serious side effects – although uncommon – can also appear during this period. These usually occur following the first injection or following a dose increase and may include:
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain (possible pancreatitis)
- Allergic reactions (rash/hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing)
- Swelling of the face, mouth, or throat
- Severe itching accompanied by other allergy symptoms
Week 2: Improved Tolerance is Built
Many patients begin developing tolerance to the medication between days seven and 14. Common symptoms often become milder, including:
- Reduced nausea and vomiting
- Less frequent diarrhea
- Improved indigestion
- Decreasing abdominal discomfort
- A more stable appetite
- Improving fatigue
Weeks 3-4: Common Side Effects Start to Resolve
Most common side effects improve significantly during weeks three and four. Patients may notice:
- Nausea becoming mild or disappearing
- Diarrhea largely resolving
- Indigestion improving
- Less frequent abdominal discomfort
- Fatigue returning closer to normal
- Appetite becoming more consistent
Weeks 5-8: Continued Improvement Phase
Most patients experience few ongoing side effects by this stage. Common gastrointestinal symptoms have usually resolved at this point. Mild nausea or stomach upset may occasionally occur after injections or larger meals. Many patients also begin experiencing:
- Improved blood sugar control
- Reduced appetite
- Possible weight loss
Weeks 9-12: Treatment Stability
Gastrointestinal side effects become uncommon for most patients by months two to three. Injection-site irritation – if it occurs – is generally mild and resolves within a day or two.
Most patients are now experiencing the intended benefits of Trulicity, including:
- Improved blood sugar control
- Better appetite regulation
- Continued weight management (when appropriate)
Several serious complications may occur at any point during treatment. These effects are rare but may include:
- Pancreatitis
- Kidney problems (usually following dehydration caused by vomiting or diarrhea)
- Hypoglycemia when Trulicity is used with insulin or sulfonylureas
- Worsening diabetic retinopathy
- Persistent severe abdominal pain
- Ongoing vomiting
- Fever
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
These symptoms require immediate medical evaluation.
Month 4+: Long-Term Management
Most patients tolerate Trulicity well during long-term treatment.
Occasional mild digestive symptoms may still occur after dietary changes or viral illnesses. However, this is generally brief.
Certain uncommon side effects remain possible throughout treatment like:
- Gallbladder disease (most commonly within the first six to 12months)
- Kidney injury related to dehydration
- Severe allergic reactions
- Hypoglycemia when combined with certain diabetes medications
- Worsening diabetic retinopathy
- Persistent injection-site reactions
- Rare but serious side effects
Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience:
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain (possible pancreatitis)
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the face, mouth, or throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- High fever
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (possible gallbladder disease)
- Severe dehydration
- Thyroid tumors
Animal studies identified a possible increased risk of thyroid tumors with Trulicity. This still has not been confirmed in humans. There is no known timeline for when this could occur. Patients should seek medical attention if they notice:
- A lump in the neck
- Hoarseness of the voice
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty breathing
Trulicity High-Risk Groups
| Risk Factor | Risk |
|---|---|
| MEN2 (Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2) | Trulicity is contraindicated due to increased risk of medullary thyroid carcinoma |
| Severe Gastrointestinal Disease | Higher risk of worsening GI symptoms or complications |
| Diabetic Retinopathy History or Active Disease | Rapid glucose lowering may cause temporary worsening of retinopathy |
| History of Severe Allergy or Hypersensitivity to GLP-1 Drugs | Risk of recurrence (immediate medical intervention required if symptoms appear) |
| Gallbladder Disease | Greater risk of acute gallbladder events |
Boxed Warnings for Trulicity
The FDA has attached a boxed warning to Trulicity to warn patients about how this medication possibly increases the risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. This includes medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). The type of warning associated with this medication is considered the strongest safety warning that can be issued by the FDA. The link between C-cell tumors and dulaglutide had been found in rodent studies. However, it has not yet been determined whether or not it has the same effect on humans. Patients are still told to remain cautious when using this medication – especially if the patient has a personal or family history of MTC or Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Patients taking this medication should keep an eye out for symptoms of thyroid C-cell tumors. These symptoms can include trouble breathing or swallowing – as well as lumps or swelling in the neck or a hoarse throat. Patients should contact their doctor or healthcare provider right away if they notice any of these signs.
How Long Do Side Effects Usually Continue?
Trulicity side effects can last for a variety of different lengths. Most common symptoms start within the first few days of starting a new dose and resolve themselves within a couple of weeks. This includes symptoms like nausea and bloating. This also includes symptoms like abdominal pain and indigestion. Sometimes these symptoms may only last a few days. Other mild side effects – like fatigue and loss of appetite – may last longer.
Side effects that seem to be more extreme or last longer may require medical attention. Patients should let their doctor know if their symptoms seem to get worse or do not resolve over time. They should also immediately let their doctor know if they are experiencing any of the side effects listed under the serious side effects section. Doctors may be able to help them manage these side effects or find a better alternative. Some doctors may also be able to help by adjusting the patient’s dosage if symptoms do not go away.
Managing Trulicity Side Effects
- How to Properly Take Trulicity
Patients generally are prescribed a starting dose of 0.75 mg to help ease them into their treatment and give their body time to adjust to the medication. This dose may be increased to 1.5 mg after being taken for four weeks. Patients typically take this drug by injection once every week. Patients may give the injection in the abdomen or thigh. Another option is the upper arm. Doses may be increased after each four-week period by 1.5 mg for a maximum dose of 4.5 mg if the doctor finds that higher doses are needed
It is generally suggested that patients rotate the injection site for this medication each time. Food does not need to be eaten before taking medication. This medication should be taken by the patient on the same day every week. Patients may have fewer symptoms and achieve better results if they stay hydrated and eat smaller meals while taking Trulicity. Patients should stick to their schedule as prescribed by their doctor to make sure they are getting the best and safest experience. - What to Avoid While Taking Trulicity
Patients who are taking Trulicity should limit intake of fast food and forms of junk food. They should also limit the consumption of processed foods and refined grains. There are also some beverages that should be limited while taking the medication. This includes those that are high in sugar content and certain juices. This also includes drinks with excessive caffeine content. Alcoholic beverages should also be limited while taking the medication. - Trulicity Drug Interactions
Taking certain drugs at the same time as Trulicity can lead to new or worsening side effects. These interactions include insulin medications and sulfonylureas. Some popular sulfonylureas include Glucotrol XL and Amaryl. It also includes Diabeta and Glynase. Glinides like Starlix and repaglinide are also known to have interactions with Trulicity. Patients should also avoid taking fluoroquinolone antibiotics and thiazide diuretics. Trulicity may also interact with other medications that may affect blood levels. All of these medications can cause serious side effects when taken with Trulicity. - When to Seek Emergency Care
Patients should seek emergency care for their symptoms if they are experiencing any serious side effects. This may include swelling or difficulty breathing that could be a sign of an allergic reaction. This may also include any symptoms that could indicate serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney problems. Those with extreme stomach pains that will not go away or irregular heartbeat should also get emergency medical attention. Other indications that patients need emergency medical attention may include changes in vision and feelings of faintness.
Which Patients Are at Higher Risk of Side Effects?
Some groups of patients are at increased risk of developing side effects when taking Trulicity. This includes patients who have known digestive issues – such as diabetic gastroparesis. These patients may experience worsening digestive problems. This medication may also worsen diabetic retinopathy for patients if they already have this condition at the time of starting the medication.
Patients with a personal or family history of thyroid issues – such as MTC – should also avoid this medication. This is because Trulicity may increase thyroid cancer. The same goes for patients with a personal or family history of MEN2.
Trulicity can cause pancreatitis in some patients and should be avoided by those with a personal or family history of these issues. This medication has also been known to create or increase preexisting kidney damage in patients. This means this medication should also be avoided by patients with a history of kidney problems.
Patients on other diabetes medications should also be cautious of taking Trulicity and get a doctor’s approval first before combining any medications. This medication can interact with other diabetes medications and make the patient’s blood sugar levels drop to dangerously low levels. Medications like insulin can cause this. Combining Trulicity with medications like sulfonylureas and meglitinides may also increase the risk of hypoglycemia. This medication may also interfere with how certain oral medications are absorbed into the body and make water pills less effective.
Long-Term Use and Monitoring
There are some possible long-term side effects for those taking Trulicity. These side effects may include serious issues such as gallbladder disease and pancreatitis. Long-term use of the medication can also increase patients’ risk of developing thyroid C-cell tumors. This has been suggested in the past in animal studies. Researchers are still looking into additional long-term effects of this medication. Routine blood work and regular visits with the patient’s healthcare professionals can help catch these issues early on and avoid them. Some patients may be more at risk for these complications than others. Those with a history of related issues or a family with a history of related issues may be prescribed an alternative medication because they are at a higher risk of developing these problems.
When to Contact Your Doctor
Any of the serious and less common side effects listed above require immediate medical attention. Patients should also contact their doctor if they experience lumps or swelling of the neck. This may be an indication of thyroid tumors. Yellowing skin or eyes may also indicate liver problems and require immediate medical attention. Pens and needles should not be shared because this may cause serious infections. Patients with signs of infection should also contact their doctor immediately. They should also call their doctor with any other additional concerns or questions they may have.
The best way to catch serious side effects early on is by documenting and tracking patients’ experiences with the medication. This information can be shared with their doctor to discuss any concerns and treat emerging problems as they arise. Some doctors may prescribe alternatives to Trulicity if side effects can not be managed. This often includes a semaglutide – like Ozempic or Rybelsus – or a liraglutide like Victoza. It may also include a tirzepatide like Mounjaro.
The Bottom Line
Trulicity has been known to cause many different side effects. Many patients experience common side effects that may appear within the first few days of starting a new dose and usually resolve within a couple of weeks. Other patients – on rarer occasions – experience serious side effects. The length of these side effects may vary and require medical attention. Patients should never stop using their medication without being told to do so by their healthcare provider first. This can cause new or worse symptoms. Most patients who experience symptoms end up tolerating the medication better after they have been taking it for a while and the body has had a chance to adjust.
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FAQs
What major side effects can Trulicity cause?
Yes. Sugar-free versions can be a better option because they lower the overall sugar and calorie content. Patients should still check the labels ahead of time to find out the exact carb count and ingredients being used.
Is Ozempic safer than Trulicity?
Both GLP-1 medications have similar profiles and side effects. However, semaglutide has more published cardiovascular outcome data. Patients should talk to their doctor about which would be the safer choice for them.
What should patients avoid while taking Trulicity?
Patients taking Trulicity should limit unhealthy food intake. This includes fatty and fried foods. They should also avoid spicy foods and caffeine. Patients are also asked to avoid alcohol and foods or beverages that are high in sugar content.
When is the ideal time of day to take Trulicity?
The most important part is that it is taken on the same day each week. Whether this is during the night or day does not matter.
How soon after taking Trulicity do side effects occur?
Most side effects start to appear within the first few days of starting a new dose.
Which side effects do most patients experience with Trulicity?
The most commonly reported side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. They also include abdominal pain or indigestion and decreased appetite. These symptoms usually appear within the first few days of starting treatment.
Will Trulicity side effects improve on their own over time?
Many patients find that common side effects like nausea and stomach discomfort improve within a couple of weeks as the body adjusts to the medication. It is best to contact a doctor if symptoms do not go away or if they seem to worsen.
How long can patients expect nausea from Trulicity to last?
Studies have found that anywhere from 8% to 29% of patients using the medication experience the side effect of nausea. This is the most common side effect and usually appears within the first few days of taking the medication. This symptom goes away within a couple of weeks in most cases. The duration may be longer for some patients.
Does taking Trulicity carry any long-term risks?
Trulicity may rarely lead to long-term side effects. These possible side effects may include gallbladder disease or pancreatitis. It may also include thyroid tumors. Patients are encouraged to have regular checkups and blood work while using Trulicity to help avoid these side effects or minimize their severity.
Do I need to stop taking Trulicity if I experience side effects?
Patients should never stop their medication without talking to their doctor first. Side effects may improve over time in some cases. It also may be dangerous for patients to stop the medication all at once. Patients should get medical attention immediately for any serious side effects and speak with their doctor about any medical concerns about using the medication.
Sources
Disclaimer: The information presented here is intended solely for educational purposes and should not be interpreted as medical advice, a diagnosis, or specific treatment recommendations. It does not imply endorsement of any particular medication or therapy. Health conditions and treatment responses can differ significantly between individuals; thus, this information is not a guarantee of safety, suitability, or effectiveness for anyone in particular. Always seek the guidance of a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice and consult them before making any health or treatment decisions.
