Dulaglutide: first global approval.

Dulaglutide (Trulicity™) is a long-acting, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that has been developed by Eli Lilly and Company for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It consists of a dipeptidyl peptidase-IV-protected GLP-1 analogue covalently linked to a human IgG4-Fc heavy chain by a small peptide linker. The subcutaneous formulation is approved for use in type 2 diabetes in the US, has been recommended for approval in the EU in this indication, and is under regulatory review in other countries. This article summarizes the milestones in the development of subcutaneous dulaglutide leading to this first approval for type 2 diabetes.