Exenatide Pen Injector (EXENATIDE - INJECTION)

For diabetes.

Brand Name(s): Byetta

Generic Name: Exenatide

Instructions

This medicine is injected into the skin. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist where on your body this medicine can be injected and how to inject it.

Carefully follow the instructions for preparing this medicine before injection.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Keep the medicine in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. Do not freeze. Remove from the refrigerator and let it warm up to room temperature before using. Keep the medicine at room temperature once opened. Do not put it back into the refrigerator.

Protect medicine from light.

Take the medicine out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before use to warm to room temperature.

Do not return the medicine to the refrigerator after you start using it.

Injecting cold drug may be uncomfortable.

Discard the injectable pen 30 days after first use, even if there is medicine left in the pen.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.

Change the location of the injection each time. Choose a location at least 1 inch from the last injection.

If you forget a dose, just wait. Use the next dose at the usual time. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Be sure to follow your regular meal plan and exercise as discussed with your doctor.

Talk to your doctor before taking other medicines, including aspirins and ibuprofen containing products. Speak to your doctor about which medicines are safe to use while you are on this medicine.

This medicine may cause low blood sugar. Eat regular meals and exercise as instructed by your doctor. Tell your doctor if you have symptoms of low blood sugar such as nausea, sweating, cold skin, fast heartbeat, hunger, and irritability.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Patients with very low blood sugar may become very confused, lose consciousness, or have seizures.

Monitor your blood sugar as instructed by your doctor.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet showing that you are diabetic.

Carry glucose tablets or hard candy with you in case you experience low blood sugar from this medicine.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • constipation or diarrhea
  • lack of energy and tiredness
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • nausea and vomiting
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain
  • weight loss

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • decreased appetite
  • bleeding or bruising
  • unusual or long-lasting hoarseness
  • unusual growth or lump on the neck
  • red, peeling or blistering skin
  • severe stomach pain that spreads to the back
  • difficulty swallowing
  • difficulty or discomfort urinating
  • urinating less often
  • severe or persistent vomiting
  • yellowing of eyes or skin

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

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