Trulicity Pen Malfunction: Causes, Fixes, and What to Do
Trulicity is a trusted weekly injection for managing type 2 diabetes, but issues with the pen can be frustrating. A Trulicity pen malfunction can disrupt your treatment, causing stress and health concerns.
This article explains why these problems happen, how to fix them, and steps to take if issues persist. With simple language, it guides you through handling pen malfunctions safely and effectively.
Understanding the Trulicity Pen
The Trulicity pen is a prefilled, single-use device for injecting dulaglutide. It delivers a precise dose (0.75 mg to 4.5 mg) under the skin weekly. The pen is designed for ease, with a hidden needle and simple push-button delivery. It’s used by adults and children over 10 to control blood sugar and reduce heart risks.
Each pen has a lock/unlock feature to prevent accidental use. You inject it in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm after unlocking and pressing the button. Knowing how the pen works helps identify when a Trulicity pen malfunction occurs. Most issues are fixable with proper troubleshooting.
Common Causes of Trulicity Pen Malfunction
Improper Storage Conditions
Trulicity pens must be stored in a refrigerator (36°F to 46°F) before use. Heat, freezing, or direct sunlight can damage the pen’s mechanism or medication. A damaged pen may not deliver the full dose. Always check storage conditions if you suspect a malfunction.
User Error During Injection
Incorrect use, like not unlocking the pen or pressing the button fully, can cause issues. Some users forget to hold the pen against the skin for 5 seconds after injection. This leads to incomplete dosing, mimicking a Trulicity pen malfunction. Reviewing instructions can often resolve these problems.
Manufacturing Defects
Though rare, some pens may have defects, like a jammed button or clogged needle. Eli Lilly, the manufacturer, maintains strict quality controls, but defects can slip through. A defective pen may not dispense medication at all. These cases usually require replacement.
Expired or Damaged Pens
Using an expired pen or one dropped on a hard surface can lead to malfunctions. Expiration dates are printed on the pen and packaging. Physical damage may affect the internal mechanism. Check the pen’s condition before each use.
Signs of a Trulicity Pen Malfunction
You might notice no medication comes out when you press the button. The green injection button may feel stuck or not click properly. Some users report hearing no “click” sound during injection. These signs suggest the pen isn’t working as intended.
Incomplete dosing can cause blood sugar spikes within days. You may feel tired, thirsty, or notice blurry vision. If you suspect a malfunction, act quickly to avoid health issues. Always inspect the pen after use to confirm delivery.
Troubleshooting a Malfunctioning Pen
Check the Pen’s Appearance
Inspect the pen for cracks, leaks, or cloudiness in the medication window. Ensure it’s not expired by checking the date on the label. A damaged or expired pen should not be used. Contact your pharmacist for a replacement.
Verify Injection Technique
Follow the instructions carefully: unlock the pen, clean the injection site, and press the button fully. Hold the pen in place for 5 seconds after the click. If you miss a step, the dose may not deliver. Practice the steps to rule out user error.
Test with a New Pen
If you have another pen, try using it with the same technique. If the new pen works, the first one may be defective. Keep unused pens refrigerated and unopened. This helps confirm if the issue is specific to one pen.
Store Properly Between Uses
After a malfunction, ensure remaining pens are stored correctly. Keep them in the fridge, away from the freezer compartment. Avoid leaving pens in hot cars or direct sunlight. Proper storage prevents further issues with your supply.
Steps to Take If the Pen Still Doesn’t Work
Contact Your Pharmacist
Call your pharmacy to report the Trulicity pen malfunction. They may replace a defective pen at no cost, depending on their policy. Bring the faulty pen and your prescription details. Some pharmacies track defective products for reporting.
Reach Out to Eli Lilly
Eli Lilly offers support for Trulicity users at 1-800-545-5979. They can guide you on troubleshooting or arrange a replacement. Be ready with the pen’s lot number, found on the packaging. Their team can also report defects for investigation.
Consult Your Doctor
If you miss a dose due to a malfunction, contact your doctor. They may adjust your treatment plan or prescribe a temporary alternative. Missing doses can raise blood sugar, so don’t delay. Your doctor can help keep your diabetes managed.
Monitor Your Blood Sugar
Track your glucose levels closely after a malfunction. Use a glucometer to check for spikes or unusual patterns. Report symptoms like fatigue or increased thirst to your doctor. Monitoring helps prevent complications while resolving the issue.
Preventing Trulicity Pen Malfunctions
Store Pens Correctly
Always refrigerate Trulicity pens before use. Once opened, they can stay at room temperature (up to 86°F) for 14 days. Avoid extreme temperatures to protect the pen’s function. A small cooler can help during travel.
Read Instructions Carefully
Review the pen’s user guide before each injection. Key steps include:
- Unlocking the pen before use.
- Holding the button for 5 seconds.
- Rotating injection sites (abdomen, thigh, arm).
Following these steps reduces user-related issues.
Inspect Pens Before Use
Check each pen for damage or expiration before injecting. Look at the medication window for clarity and ensure the button moves freely. Discard any suspicious pens and report them. This habit catches problems early.
Keep a Backup Supply
Ask your doctor for an extra prescription to have backup pens. This ensures you’re covered if a pen malfunctions or supply issues arise. Check insurance coverage for additional refills. A small reserve can prevent treatment gaps.
Comparing Trulicity Pen Issues to Other GLP-1 Pens
| Pen Type | Common Issues | Fixes |
|---|---|---|
| Trulicity | Stuck button, no medication flow | Check technique, contact Eli Lilly |
| Ozempic | Needle clogs, dose counter errors | Replace pen, call Novo Nordisk |
| Victoza | Leaking pen, inconsistent dosing | Inspect pen, consult pharmacist |
This table compares Trulicity pen issues with other GLP-1 pens. While problems are similar, fixes involve checking technique or contacting the manufacturer.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If a malfunction causes a missed dose, don’t double up on the next one. Take the next dose as scheduled, usually a week later. Contact your doctor for guidance on managing blood sugar in the meantime. They may suggest diet changes or temporary medications.
Monitor symptoms like high blood sugar (thirst, fatigue) closely. Test your glucose levels more often to stay in control. Quick action minimizes risks from a missed dose. Your doctor can help you get back on track.
Lifestyle Tips to Support Diabetes Management
A balanced diet helps stabilize blood sugar during pen issues. Eat low-carb foods like vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid sugary drinks or snacks that spike glucose. Small meals throughout the day work best.
Exercise, like 30 minutes of walking most days, supports diabetes control. Check with your doctor before starting new activities. Staying active reduces reliance on medication. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and feel your best.
Reporting Defective Pens
If you encounter a Trulicity pen malfunction, report it to Eli Lilly. Use their support line or website to submit details, including the lot number. Reporting helps track defects and improve quality control. The FDA also accepts reports through MedWatch for defective medical devices.
Keep the faulty pen and packaging for reference. Note any error messages or physical damage. Your report can prevent similar issues for others. Eli Lilly may offer a replacement or refund.
Summary
A Trulicity pen malfunction can stem from improper storage, user error, defects, or expired pens. Signs include no medication flow or a stuck button, which can disrupt diabetes management.
Troubleshoot by checking technique, inspecting the pen, and contacting your pharmacist or Eli Lilly. Prevent issues with proper storage, careful use, and backup supplies. Monitor blood sugar and consult your doctor if problems persist to stay healthy.
FAQ
What causes a Trulicity pen malfunction?
Common causes include improper storage, user errors like not pressing the button fully, or rare manufacturing defects. Expired or damaged pens can also malfunction. Check storage and technique first.
How do I fix a malfunctioning Trulicity pen?
Inspect the pen for damage, verify your injection technique, and try a new pen. If it still doesn’t work, contact your pharmacist or Eli Lilly. Don’t use a faulty pen.
What should I do if I miss a dose due to a malfunction?
Don’t double the next dose; take it as scheduled. Monitor blood sugar and contact your doctor for guidance. They may adjust your plan to manage glucose levels.
Can I prevent Trulicity pen malfunctions?
Store pens in the fridge, follow instructions, and inspect for damage before use. Keep a backup supply to avoid gaps. Proper handling reduces malfunction risks.
Who do I contact for a defective Trulicity pen?
Call Eli Lilly at 1-800-545-5979 or your pharmacist for a replacement. Report defects to Eli Lilly or the FDA’s MedWatch. Keep the pen’s lot number handy.
