Description
Bydureon is an extended-release formulation of exenatide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. It helps improve glycemic control by enhancing glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppressing inappropriate glucagon release, slowing gastric emptying, and promoting satiety, which may support weight loss. Bydureon is designed for once-weekly subcutaneous administration, providing continuous glycemic coverage with a single dose.
Fact Table |
Formula | C184H282N50O60 |
License | US FDA, EMA |
Bioavailability | ~65% (subcutaneous) |
Legal status | Rx-only |
Chemical Name | Exenatide (extended-release) |
Elimination half-life | ~2 weeks (due to microsphere formulation) |
Dosage (Strength) | 2 mg once weekly (subcutaneous injection) |
Pregnancy | Use only if clearly needed (Category C) |
Brands | Bydureon, Bydureon BCise (prefilled autoinjector) |
Protein binding | Not extensively bound |
PubChem CID | 16133899 |
MedlinePlus | a607050 |
ChEBI | 6826 |
ATC code | A10BJ01 |
DrugBank | DB01225 |
KEGG | D04167 |
Routes of administration | Subcutaneous injection (weekly) |
Directions
Bydureon is administered as a subcutaneous injection of 2 mg once weekly, on the same day each week, with or without meals.
- Injection sites include the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, rotating sites with each dose.
- If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible within 3 days after the missed dose; then resume the regular schedule.
- Bydureon is supplied as either a single-dose prefilled pen or a powder requiring reconstitution with a diluent in a dual-chamber syringe or vial.
Patients should be trained in proper mixing and injection technique. Do not use in patients with type 1 diabetes or for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Ingredients
Each 2 mg dose contains:
- Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLG) microspheres (for extended release)
- Water for injection (diluent)
Formulations vary slightly by device type (pen vs. vial/syringe).
Contraindications
Bydureon is contraindicated in patients with:
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- Known hypersensitivity to exenatide or formulation components
Cautions
- Bydureon carries a boxed warning for thyroid C-cell tumors (based on rodent studies; human relevance unknown).
- Use with caution in patients with gastrointestinal disease (e.g., gastroparesis) or renal impairment.
- Monitor renal function in patients with risk factors for acute kidney injury.
- Pancreatitis has been reported; discontinue if suspected.
- Not recommended for use in pediatric patients under 18 years of age.
- Do not use in combination with other GLP-1 receptor agonists.
Side Effects
Common side effects include:
Serious adverse effects may include:
- Hypoglycemia (especially when used with sulfonylureas or insulin)
- Hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis, angioedema)
- Thyroid C-cell tumors (observed in rodents)
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 12763