Dulaglutide vs Teriparatide
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Dulaglutide
Dulaglutide (Trulicity) is a once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist for type 2 diabetes. Its larger molecular size from fusion with an Fc fragment extends half-life and may reduce some GI side effects.
Full details →Teriparatide
Teriparatide (Forteo) is recombinant human parathyroid hormone (1-34), FDA-approved for osteoporosis treatment. It's unique among osteoporosis drugs in that it stimulates new bone formation.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Dulaglutide | Teriparatide |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | GLP-1 analog fused to a modified human IgG4 Fc fragment, providing extended duration of action. Activates GLP-1 receptors for glucose-dependent insulin secretion and appetite suppression. | Intermittent PTH exposure paradoxically stimulates osteoblasts more than osteoclasts, resulting in net bone formation. Continuous exposure would cause bone loss, but pulsatile dosing builds bone. |
| Typical Dosage | Start at 0.75mg once weekly, may increase to 1.5mg, 3mg, or maximum 4.5mg weekly based on glycemic response. | 20mcg subcutaneously once daily. Maximum treatment duration of 2 years due to theoretical osteosarcoma risk from rat studies. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection once weekly, any time of day, with or without food. Comes in pre-filled single-dose pens. | Subcutaneous injection in thigh or abdomen once daily. Delivered via multi-dose pen. Should sit or lie down after injection due to orthostatic hypotension risk. |
| Side Effects | Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, decreased appetite. Generally well-tolerated with gradual dose titration. | Orthostatic hypotension, leg cramps, nausea, dizziness, headache, and injection site reactions. Transient hypercalcemia possible. |
| Best For |