Why is My Diabetes Medication Always on Backorder?

Understanding the Shortage of Trulicity

If you or a loved one has been managing Type 2 diabetes with Trulicity (dulaglutide) and have recently faced difficulties in refilling the prescription, you are not alone. Many patients are experiencing backorder issues with this medication, causing concerns about diabetes management and overall health.

High Demand for GLP-1 Agonists Trulicity is part of a class of medications known as GLP-1 agonists, which also includes popular drugs like Ozempic (semaglutide) and Wegovy. These medications are not only effective in treating diabetes but also promote weight loss and reduce the risk of heart disease. This makes them highly sought after.

Approval and Substitution Issues While semaglutide and tirzepatide have been approved by the FDA for weight loss, Trulicity has not. However, many insurance companies require patients to try alternative medications like Trulicity before covering the more popular and expensive options. This increased demand, combined with manufacturing issues, has led to significant shortages.

Manufacturer’s Statement Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Trulicity, has acknowledged these shortages and expects them to continue through December 2024. This extended period of unavailability is causing major disruptions for patients who rely on this medication for their diabetes management.

Impact on Diabetes Management For those who have been on Trulicity for years, the sudden unavailability can be detrimental. It often takes weeks or months for the body to adjust to the higher doses of GLP-1 agonists. If a patient is off the medication for more than a few weeks, they may need to restart at the lowest dose and gradually increase it, which can delay effective diabetes management and increase the risk of side effects.

What Can Patients Do? Unfortunately, there are limited solutions to this problem. Pharmaceutical companies are making significant profits from these medications and are motivated to increase production. However, the demand continues to exceed supply.

Conclusion If you are facing a shortage of Trulicity, consult with your healthcare provider about possible alternatives and strategies to manage your diabetes effectively during this period. Staying informed and proactive is crucial to maintaining your health.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• Eli Lilly Manufacturer Statements