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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

EXENATIDE - INJECTION

(ex-EN-a-tide)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Byetta

USES: Exenatide is used along with other oral diabetes medications (e.g., metformin, chlorpropamide, glipizide, glyburide) and a proper diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar in people with Type 2 diabetes (non-insulin dependent diabetes). Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs, and sexual function problems. Proper control of diabetes may also lessen your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

Exenatide acts like the natural blood sugar-lowering hormone called incretin. It works in several ways, especially by stimulating the release of the body's natural insulin in response to high sugar levels after a meal, thereby lowering your blood sugar.

Exenatide is not a substitute for insulin if you require insulin treatment. This medication should not be used in patients with Type 1 diabetes or for the treatment of extremely high blood sugars (diabetic ketoacidosis).

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide and the Pen User Manual provided by your pharmacist before you start using exenatide and each time you get a refill. If you have questions regarding the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Exenatide is injected under the skin (subcutaneous-SC) in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm usually twice daily within the hour before the morning and evening meals (or before the two main meals of the day, approximately 6 hours or more apart). Exenatide should not be injected after a meal since it will be much less effective at that time.

Antibiotics and birth control pills should be taken at least 1 hour before exenatide, since exenatide may decrease their effectiveness if used at the same time. If the antibiotic or birth control pill needs to be taken with food then take it with a meal or snack when exenatide is not injected (such as lunch). (See also Drug Interactions section)

Make sure you learn the technique and procedures for preparing the drug and for self-injection. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. It is important to change the location of the injection site daily to avoid problem areas under the skin. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and your response to therapy. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.

Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens (blood sugar levels are too high or low).