Exenatide: Side Effects, Overdose and Pregnancy Information

Exenatide injection (subcutaneous) is used to treat people with type 2 or non-insulin dependent diabetes. Exenatide works by imitating the actions of a hormone called Glucagon-like Peptide-1, or GLP-1. GLP-1 is produced naturally by the body in response to food intake. By imitating these actions of GLP-1, Exenatide helps reduce blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Exenatide is used for people with type 2 diabetes whose blood sugar is not controlled by either Metformin, or another type of antidiabetic medicine known as a sulphonylurea.

EXENATIDE SIDE EFFECTS

Side effects of Exenatide may include nausea, vomiting, hypoglycemia (low blood glucose level), diarrhea, indigestion, abdominal pain, dizziness, headache, appetite loss, bloating, fatigue, allergic reactions at the injection site, rash, hives, constipation, flatulence, dehydration, swollen face, tongue or throat.

Exenatide Warning and Caution

Exenatide must NOT be injected after meals.

Exenatide must NOT be injected into a vein (intravenous) or a muscle (intramuscular).

Hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) is a very common side effect when Exenatide is used in combination with sulphonylurea medicines.

Cases of inflammation of the pancreas have been reported in people taking Exenatide.

Exenatide should be used with caution in seniors and people with decreased kidney function.

Exenatide should not be given in Type 1 diabetes, people receiving dialysis or who have severe kidney disease, people receiving insulin treatment.

Exenatide is not recommended for children under 18 years of age.

Exenatide and Pregnancy

Exenatide should not be used during pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your physician if you get pregnant or plan to get pregnant while using Exenatide.

Exenatide passes into breast milk. Nursing mothers should switch to bottle-feed while taking Exenatide.

Exenatide Interaction

Contraceptives and antibiotics that are taken by mouth should be taken at least one hour before Exenatide. Exenatide may increase the anti-blood-clotting effect of anticoagulant drugs such as warfarin.

Exenatide Overdose

In case of Exenatide overdose, seek medical attention right away.