Healthcare Pharmaceuticals Ltd (HPL) and Eli Lilly and Company today announced the launch of Trulicity (dulaglutide) in Bangladesh. This is the first once-a-week use, injectable medication designed to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes, according to a press release issued to media.

Trulicity offers patient benefits beyond glycemic control and the convenience associated with a once-weekly dose. Studies on Trulicity have also established its cardiovascular safety and weight reduction potential.

The drug comes in an easy to use, single-dose pen that does not require mixing or measuring and can be administered at any time of the day, independent of meals. It is available in 0.75 mg and 1.5 mg doses.

Trulicity is part of a class of drugs known as a glucagon -- like peptide (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It is not insulin and mimics the effects of GLP-1, a natural hormone that helps keep blood sugar levels normal, by helping the body release its own insulin after food intake.

"Trulicity will be marketed and distributed in Bangladesh by Healthcare Pharmaceuticals Ltd. The launch will open newer avenues in diabetes management and provide healthcare professionals with a better way to manage diabetes," said Halimuzzaman, DMD and CEO, Healthcare Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

"Diabetes is a big burden on the healthcare system in Bangladesh. More than 8 million people live with diabetes in the country and their treatment needs differ," said Luca Visini, Managing Director for South Asia, Eli Lilly and Company.

"Lilly has been a global leader in diabetes care since 1923. Trulicity is an important addition to our diabetes portfolio in Bangladesh and this launch is an important milestone in our journey to help more and more patients and their caregivers with the treatment support they need," he added.

"Type 2 diabetes is a progressive disease and in Bangladesh many patients do not meet their treatment goals. Trulicity is a new, non-insulin, injectable that has been designed keeping patients' needs and convenience in mind," said Professor AK Azad Khan, President, Diabetic Association of Bangladesh (BADAS).

Trulicity is a prescription drug that should be taken only on advice from registered physicians who deal with diabetic patients. When prescribed, it should be used as an adjunct to diet and exercise.


_{Source: thedailystar.net}