Bydureon BCise

The typical dosage of Bydureon BCise is:

• Standard Dose: 2 mg injected subcutaneously once every 7 days (weekly), at any time of day, with or without meals.

Bydureon BCise is contraindicated in patients with:

• A personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), due to the increased risk of thyroid C-cell tumors observed in animal studies.
• A history of severe hypersensitivity reactions to exenatide or any of the components in Bydureon BCise.
• Severe gastrointestinal disease, including gastroparesis, as Bydureon slows gastric emptying.

Patients using Bydureon BCise should be advised to:

• Administer the injection once weekly, on the same day each week. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible, but only if the next dose is at least 3 days (72 hours) away. Do not take two doses within 3 days of each other.
• Rotate injection sites with each dose to avoid skin irritation or lumps at the injection site.
• Be aware of the potential for hypoglycemia, especially when Bydureon is used in combination with other diabetes medications like sulfonylureas or insulin. Monitor blood sugar levels regularly.
• Store Bydureon BCise in the refrigerator until use. It can be stored at room temperature (below 86°F) for up to 4 weeks if necessary. Do not freeze the medication.
• Report any signs of pancreatitis (such as severe abdominal pain that may radiate to the back), thyroid tumors (such as a lump in the neck), or allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing) to their healthcare provider immediately.

• Nausea (most common, especially at the beginning of treatment)
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Injection site reactions (such as redness, itching, or lumps)
• Indigestion
• Fatigue

Serious side effects can include:

• Pancreatitis: Patients should be informed of the signs and symptoms of pancreatitis and advised to seek medical attention if they experience severe abdominal pain.
• Thyroid Tumors: Although rare, patients should be monitored for signs of thyroid tumors, particularly in those with a personal or family history of thyroid cancer.
• Kidney Problems: Including acute kidney injury, particularly in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.

• Pancreatitis: Bydureon has been associated with an increased risk of pancreatitis. Patients should be monitored for signs of pancreatitis, and the medication should be discontinued if pancreatitis is suspected.
• Thyroid Tumors: Although the risk in humans is not well established, animal studies have shown an increased risk of thyroid C-cell tumors with GLP-1 receptor agonists. Patients should be aware of the potential risks.
• Severe Gastrointestinal Disease: Bydureon should not be used in patients with severe gastrointestinal diseases, including gastroparesis, as it slows gastric emptying and can worsen these conditions.

Bydureon BCise may interact with other medications, including:

• Oral Medications: Bydureon may affect the absorption of oral medications taken at the same time due to its effect on gastric emptying. Patients should take oral medications that require rapid absorption at least one hour before or three hours after injecting Bydureon.
• Sulfonylureas and Insulin: Increased risk of hypoglycemia when used in combination. Dose adjustments of sulfonylureas or insulin may be necessary.
• Warfarin: Bydureon may alter INR levels in patients taking warfarin, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. INR should be monitored closely when initiating or adjusting Bydureon therapy.

Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications and supplements they are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Alternative treatments for type 2 diabetes include:

• Other GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: Such as liraglutide (Victoza), dulaglutide (Trulicity), or semaglutide (Ozempic).
• DPP-4 Inhibitors: Such as sitagliptin (Januvia) or saxagliptin (Onglyza), which also help regulate blood sugar levels.
• SGLT2 Inhibitors: Such as canagliflozin (Invokana) or empagliflozin (Jardiance), which help lower blood sugar by causing the kidneys to remove sugar through the urine.
• Insulin Therapy: For patients who require more intensive glucose control.

The choice of treatment depends on the individual’s overall health, the severity of their diabetes, and their response to previous treatments.