Comparison
Dulaglutide vs. Lixisenatide
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Metabolic
Metabolic
CAS no.
923950-08-7
320367-13-3
Molecular weight
59670 g/mol
4858.5 g/mol
Half-life
110 h
3 h
Sequence
GLP-1(7-37)-Variante kovalent verbunden mit modifiziertem humanen IgG4-FcHGEGTFTSDLSKQMEEEAVRLFIEWLKNGGPSSGAPPSKKKKKK-NH2Mechanism 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.
Lixisenatide
Lixisenatide is a 44-amino-acid peptide based on exendin-4 (see exenatide) with six additional lysine residues at the C-terminus. This modification increases stability against DPP-4 degradation. The short half-life (~3 hours) and plasma peak around mealtime explain the predominantly prandial effect — stronger postprandial glucose action, weaker fasting glucose effect than weekly GLP-1 RAs.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human RCT
Studies
5
5
of which in humans
5
5
Effects recorded
3
3
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
2
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Dulaglutide and Lixisenatide?
- Dulaglutide is classified as "Metabolic", while Lixisenatide 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. Lixisenatide: Synthetic exendin-4 analog with a C-terminal lysine extension. Prandial GLP-1 RA focused on postprandial glucose. FDA-approved 2016 as Adlyxin; EMA-approved 2013 as Lyxumia. Sanofi discontinued US distribution in 2023. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Dulaglutide or Lixisenatide?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Dulaglutide and "Human RCT" for Lixisenatide. 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 Lixisenatide in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Dulaglutide — Prescription, Lixisenatide — Prescription. United States: Dulaglutide — Prescription, Lixisenatide — Unapproved. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.