Incretin Mimetics
A non-insulin medication given by injection
Taken twice daily within 60 minutes before the morning and evening meal (or two main meals of the day if 6 or more hours apart).
Exenatide works by increasing the levels of hormones called ‘incretins’. These hormones:
- Help your body produce more insulin when it is needed.
- Reduce the amount of glucose being produced by the liver when it is not needed.
- Reduce the rate at which your stomach digests foods and empties.
- Reduce appetite.
NB - Exenatide should not be given after a meal. If an injection is missed the treatment should be continued with the next scheduled dose.
Undesirable effects which may be experienced in this group;
Hypoglycaemia (hypo), pancreatitis, decreased appetite, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, indigestion, abdominal pain, heartburn, bloating, flatulence, burping, constipation, sweating, feeling jittery, weakness, reaction at injection site, allergic skin reactions, general allergic reaction, kidney function problems, dehydration, unusual taste in the mouth, drowsiness.
| Generic name | Trade name | Prefilled pen size | Initial /maximum daily dose |
| Exenatide | Byetta | 5 mcg 10 mcg |
10 mcg - 20 mcg |
The dosage indicated will vary from person to person.
If you have any problems with your dosage or the injections, contact your healthcare team.
This information has been taken from Diabetes Uk