About exenatide
GLP-1 receptor agonist
Used for
- Helps control blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes, alongside diet and exercise.
Usual adult dose
Usually 5 micrograms injected twice daily before meals for one month, then 10 micrograms twice daily if tolerated.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Reduced appetite
- Injection-site reactions
Important warnings
- Not for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
- Avoid in severe kidney problems; it may worsen dehydration from vomiting or diarrhoea.
- Pancreatitis has been reported; seek urgent assessment for severe, persistent abdominal pain.
- Can cause low blood sugar, especially with insulin or sulfonylureas.
Pregnancy
Not recommended during pregnancy; glucose-lowering treatment may need review by a clinician.
Breastfeeding
It is not known whether exenatide passes into breast milk; discuss use with a clinician.
Interactions
- May slow stomach emptying and affect absorption of oral medicines.
- Warfarin: monitoring may be needed when starting treatment.
- Insulin or sulfonylureas increase the risk of low blood sugar.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.