Byetta 10 MCG Pen

The typical dosage of Byetta for adults with type 2 diabetes is:

• Initial Dose: 5 mcg injected subcutaneously twice daily, 60 minutes before the morning and evening meals.
• Maintenance Dose: After 1 month, the dose is typically increased to 10 mcg injected subcutaneously twice daily, 60 minutes before the morning and evening meals.

• A history of severe hypersensitivity to exenatide or any of its components.
• A history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), due to an increased risk of thyroid C-cell tumors observed in animal studies with GLP-1 receptor agonists.
• Severe gastrointestinal disease, including gastroparesis, as Byetta slows gastric emptying.

Patients using Byetta 10 MCG Pen should be advised to:

• Follow the prescribed dosing schedule carefully and inject the medication 60 minutes before the morning and evening meals. Do not take it after meals, as this can affect how the medication works.
• Rotate injection sites to avoid skin irritation or lumps at the injection site.
• Be aware of the potential for hypoglycemia, especially if Byetta is used in combination with other diabetes medications like sulfonylureas. Monitor blood sugar levels regularly.
• Store the Byetta pen in the refrigerator until first use. After the first use, the pen can be stored at room temperature for up to 30 days. Do not freeze the medication.
• Report any signs of pancreatitis (such as severe abdominal pain that may radiate to the back) or allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing) to their healthcare provider immediately.

• Nausea (the most common side effect, especially at the beginning of treatment)
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Injection site reactions
• Headache
• Dizziness

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.
• Hypoglycemia: Particularly when used with other glucose-lowering agents, especially sulfonylureas.
• Kidney Problems: Including acute kidney injury, particularly in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.

• Pancreatitis: Byetta 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.
• Severe Gastrointestinal Disease: Byetta should not be used in patients with severe gastrointestinal diseases, including gastroparesis, as it slows gastric emptying and can worsen these conditions.

• Oral Medications: Byetta 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 two hours after injecting Byetta.
• Sulfonylureas and Insulin: Increased risk of hypoglycemia when used in combination. Dose adjustments of sulfonylureas or insulin may be necessary.
• Warfarin: Byetta may alter INR levels in patients taking warfarin, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. INR should be monitored closely when initiating or adjusting Byetta therapy.

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.