Byetta (exenatide)

Byetta (exenatide) is an injectable type 2 diabetes medication in the GLP-1 receptor agonist class of drugs. It helps release insulin when blood glucose rises at mealtime, slow the absorption of mealtime glucose, and lower the amount of glucose produced by the liver. This drug is not recommended for use in conjunction with bolus (mealtime) insulin therapy. Medications in the GLP-1 receptor agonist class may offer heart and kidney benefits for people with cardiovascular disease. Because type 2 diabetes medications act in different ways to lower blood glucose levels, providers will often prescribe multiple drugs to a patient. Several of the more popular combinations of oral drugs can be prescribed together in a single pill. Each medication has its own side effects. Read labels carefully.