WARNING

Byetta (exenatide) is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. While it’s generally effective in lowering blood sugar levels, it’s important to be aware of potential risks associated with its use. Some of these risks include:

• Hypoglycemia: Byetta can sometimes cause blood sugar levels to drop too low, leading to symptoms such as sweating, dizziness, confusion, and fainting.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Common side effects of Byetta include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can be bothersome for some people.
• Pancreatitis: There have been reports of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) in people taking Byetta. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Kidney Problems: Byetta may affect kidney function in some individuals, especially those with pre-existing kidney disease.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Rarely, Byetta can cause allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing.
• Thyroid Cancer: While rare, there have been some reports of thyroid cancer associated with the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists like Byetta in animal studies, but it’s uncertain if this risk applies to humans.

It’s crucial to discuss the potential risks and benefits of Byetta with your healthcare provider, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Byetta (exenatide) is prescribed primarily for the management of type 2 diabetes. It’s used to help control blood sugar levels in adults with this condition. Byetta belongs to a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic the action of the hormone GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1).

GLP-1 receptor agonists like Byetta have several effects that help improve blood sugar control:

• Stimulating Insulin Release: Byetta helps stimulate the pancreas to release insulin in response to meals. This helps to lower blood sugar levels after eating.
• Slowing Gastric Emptying: Byetta slows down the rate at which food leaves the stomach, which can help reduce postprandial (after-meal) spikes in blood sugar levels.
• Decreasing Glucagon Secretion: Byetta suppresses the release of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels by prompting the liver to release glucose. By reducing glucagon levels, Byetta helps prevent excessive glucose production by the liver.

Byetta is typically used in conjunction with diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes. It’s often prescribed when lifestyle changes and other oral medications alone are insufficient for managing blood sugar levels. Byetta is not used to treat type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.

How should this medicine be used?

Byetta (exenatide) is typically administered by subcutaneous injection. Here’s how it should be used:

• Dosage: Byetta is usually started at a low dose and gradually increased to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. The typical starting dose is 5 micrograms (mcg) injected subcutaneously twice daily within the 60-minute period before the morning and evening meals (or before the two main meals of the day, at least 6 hours apart). After one month of therapy, the dose may be increased to 10 mcg twice daily if needed and tolerated.
• Injection Site: Byetta injections should be administered subcutaneously (under the skin) in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. The injection site should be rotated to avoid irritation or lipodystrophy (changes in fat tissue).
• Preparation: Before each injection, visually inspect the Byetta solution for particulate matter and discoloration. Byetta should be clear and colorless. If any particles or discoloration are present, the solution should not be used.
• Administration: Byetta should be injected using a sterile needle and syringe or a pen injector device specifically designed for use with Byetta. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the medication’s package insert for proper injection technique.
• Timing: Byetta should be injected within the 60-minute period before the morning and evening meals (or the two main meals of the day). It’s important to take Byetta consistently at the same times each day to maintain its effectiveness.
• Diet and Exercise: Byetta is typically used in combination with diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in people with type 2 diabetes. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for diet and exercise while taking Byetta.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential while taking Byetta to assess its effectiveness and adjust the dosage if necessary. Be sure to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider.

It’s important to adhere to your healthcare provider’s instructions and to not adjust the dosage or frequency of Byetta without consulting them first. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Byetta, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Other uses for this medicine

Off-label use of Byetta may include:

• Weight Loss: Some studies have shown that Byetta may lead to modest weight loss in addition to its effects on blood sugar control. As a result, healthcare providers may prescribe it off-label for weight management in certain individuals.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Byetta may be used off-label in some cases to help manage symptoms of PCOS, such as insulin resistance and weight gain.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Byetta use, here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Hypoglycemia: Byetta can sometimes cause low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), particularly when used in combination with other diabetes medications that also lower blood sugar. Be aware of the symptoms of hypoglycemia and know how to treat it if it occurs.
• Gastrointestinal Effects: Byetta commonly causes gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, especially when starting the medication or increasing the dosage. These effects typically improve over time, but if they become severe or persistent, consult your healthcare provider.
• Pancreatitis: There have been reports of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) in people taking Byetta. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
• Kidney Function: Byetta may affect kidney function in some individuals, especially those with pre-existing kidney disease. Your healthcare provider may monitor your kidney function periodically while you’re taking Byetta.
• Thyroid Tumors: In animal studies, Byetta has been associated with an increased risk of thyroid tumors. While this risk has not been definitively established in humans, your healthcare provider may monitor your thyroid function periodically if you’re taking Byetta.
• Injection Site Reactions: Injection site reactions such as redness, swelling, or itching may occur with Byetta. Rotate injection sites and follow proper injection techniques to minimize these reactions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Byetta during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. If you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of Byetta with your healthcare provider.

It’s important to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, medications you’re taking (including over-the-counter and herbal supplements), and any concerns or questions you may have about Byetta.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Meal Timing: Byetta is typically taken within the 60-minute period before the morning and evening meals (or the two main meals of the day). Ensure that you take Byetta consistently at the same times each day in relation to your meals.
• Healthy Eating: Follow a balanced diet as recommended by your healthcare provider or dietitian. Byetta is often used in conjunction with diet and exercise to manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If you forget to take your Byetta dose at the scheduled time, take it as soon as you remember.
• If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one at your regular scheduled time.
• Do not take two doses of Byetta at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
• If you’re unsure about what to do, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for advice.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Byetta (exenatide) can cause several side effects, though not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Byetta include:

• Nausea: This is one of the most common side effects, especially when starting treatment. It typically improves over time as your body adjusts to the medication.
• Vomiting: Some people may experience vomiting, particularly during the initial stages of treatment with Byetta.
• Diarrhea: Byetta can sometimes cause diarrhea, which may also improve over time.
• Hypoglycemia: Byetta can lower blood sugar levels, especially when used in conjunction with other diabetes medications that also lower blood sugar. Hypoglycemia symptoms may include sweating, shakiness, dizziness, hunger, irritability, and confusion.
• Headache: Headaches are a relatively common side effect of Byetta.
• Dizziness: Some individuals may experience dizziness, particularly when starting treatment or during dose adjustments.
• Injection Site Reactions: Redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site may occur.

Less common but potentially serious side effects of Byetta include:

• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
• Kidney Problems: Byetta may affect kidney function in some individuals, particularly those with pre-existing kidney disease.
• Thyroid Tumors: While rare, there have been reports of thyroid tumors in animal studies with drugs similar to Byetta. The significance of this risk in humans is uncertain.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Rarely, Byetta can cause allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing.
• Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia): As mentioned earlier, hypoglycemia can occur with Byetta, especially when used with other diabetes medications.

It’s essential to discuss any concerns about side effects with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and determine whether Byetta is the right medication for you based on your individual health needs and considerations.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Store Byetta injection pens or vials in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze. Once in use, the pens or vials may be kept at room temperature below 86°F (30°C) for up to 30 days. Protect from light.
• Unused Pens/Vials: If you have unused Byetta pens or vials that have not been opened, store them in the refrigerator until the expiration date printed on the label.
• Disposal: Dispose of used needles and injection pens or vials as directed by your healthcare provider or local waste disposal regulations. Do not reuse needles or share injection pens or vials with others.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects such as severe hypoglycemia, severe gastrointestinal symptoms, or allergic reactions, seek immediate medical attention.
• Contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 in the United States for guidance on overdose management.
• Provide healthcare professionals with information about the medication you have taken, including Byetta, dosage, and timing.

What other information should I know?

• Monitoring: Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels as directed by your healthcare provider while taking Byetta. Keep track of your results and report any significant changes or concerns to your healthcare provider.
• Diet and Exercise: Byetta is typically used in combination with diet and exercise to manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for diet and exercise while taking Byetta.
• Medical Alert: Inform healthcare providers (such as doctors, dentists, and emergency responders) that you are taking Byetta, as it may affect medical treatment or emergency care.
• Follow-up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Byetta and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of Byetta with your healthcare provider. The safety of Byetta during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance regarding the use of Byetta and consult them with any questions or concerns you may have.