Exenatide
Exenatide was the first GLP-1 receptor agonist approved in the US, derived from a compound found in Gila monster saliva. Available as Byetta (twice daily) and Bydureon (once weekly extended-release).
Mechanism of Action
Synthetic version of exendin-4, which activates GLP-1 receptors to enhance glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppress glucagon, slow gastric emptying, and promote satiety.
Dosage Overview
Dose Range
5 mcg – 10 mcg
Route
subcutaneous
Frequency
2x daily
Cycle Length
8–24 weeks
Reconstitution
Typical Dosage (Research)
Byetta: 5mcg twice daily for 1 month, then 10mcg twice daily. Bydureon: 2mg subcutaneously once weekly.
Byetta: Inject within 60 minutes before morning and evening meals. Bydureon: Any time of day, with or without meals. Do not mix with insulin in same syringe.
Considerations for Men & Women
Women: Short-acting GLP-1 agonist (twice daily). Same pregnancy contraindications as other GLP-1s. May affect oral contraceptive absorption during initial titration. Weight loss can improve fertility in PCOS.
Men: May improve metabolic parameters including testosterone in obese men. Twice-daily dosing. No sex-specific adjustments needed.
Individual responses vary. These notes reflect general trends from research literature and are not medical advice.
Quick Calculator
Quick Calculator
Concentration: 1,000 mcg/ml
Volume to inject: 0.01 ml
Syringe units (U-100): 0.5 units
Pre-filled with Exenatide defaults. Adjust values as needed.
Side Effects & Risks
Nausea (especially initially), vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and injection site reactions (particularly with Bydureon).
Pancreatitis risk, renal impairment concerns, thyroid tumor warnings. Not recommended with severe GI disease or CrCl <30 mL/min.
Who Uses Exenatide
Type 2 diabetics seeking glycemic control, those who prefer the original GLP-1 agonist with extensive long-term safety data.
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