Byetta (exenatide) is used with a proper diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar. People with type 2 diabetes use it. 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 is a diabetes drug that is similar to a natural hormone in your body (incretin). It works by increasing insulin release (especially after a meal) and decreasing the amount of sugar your liver makes. It also slows down food digestion in your stomach, reduces the amount of sugar absorbed from food, and may help decrease your appetite.
Studies have shown that GLP-1 reduces appetite and helps patients with weight loss (similar to Ozempic, Trulicity and Saxenda).
Diet and exercise are usually recommended as part of treatment to improve glycemic control.
Byetta is currently not approved or considered safe for children.