Comparison
Dulaglutide vs. Exenatide
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Metabolic
Metabolic
CAS no.
923950-08-7
141758-74-9
Molecular weight
59670 g/mol
4186.6 g/mol
Half-life
110 h
2.4 h
Sequence
GLP-1(7-37)-Variante kovalent verbunden mit modifiziertem humanen IgG4-FcHGEGTFTSDLSKQMEEEAVRLFIEWLKNGGPSSGAPPPSMechanism of action
Dulaglutide
Dulaglutide consists of two modified GLP-1(7-37) sequences covalently linked to a human IgG4-Fc. The Fc fusion increases molecular weight substantially (~60 kDa), reduces renal filtration and extends the half-life to several days. GLP-1 receptor activation glucose-dependently stimulates insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon, delays gastric emptying and modulates central satiety signalling.
Exenatide
Exenatide is a 39-amino-acid peptide with about 53% sequence homology to human GLP-1. A glycine substitution at position 2 prevents dipeptidyl-peptidase-IV cleavage and extends the half-life from native GLP-1 (minutes) to about 2.4 hours. GLP-1 receptor activation glucose-dependently stimulates insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon and delays gastric emptying.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human RCT
Studies
5
5
of which in humans
5
4
Effects recorded
3
3
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
2
2
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Dulaglutide and Exenatide?
- Dulaglutide is classified as "Metabolic", while Exenatide is classified as "Metabolic". Dulaglutide: GLP-1 receptor agonist designed as a fusion protein of two modified GLP-1(7-37) sequences covalently linked to a human IgG4-Fc fragment. FDA-approved 2014 (Trulicity) for type 2 diabetes; EMA approval 2014. Exenatide: Synthetic version of exendin-4, originally isolated from the saliva of the Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum). First GLP-1 receptor agonist, FDA-approved 2005 as Byetta. Weekly depot form Bydureon approved 2012. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Dulaglutide or Exenatide?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Dulaglutide and "Human RCT" for Exenatide. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of Dulaglutide and Exenatide in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Dulaglutide — Prescription, Exenatide — Prescription. United States: Dulaglutide — Prescription, Exenatide — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.