Byetta is a prescription medicine that is approved to control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. This eMedTV article describes how to administer the Byetta injections, outlines some potential side effects, and explains how the drug works.
Some of the most common side effects of Byetta can include dizziness, nausea, and diarrhea. This eMedTV segment also takes an in-depth look at some of the more serious Byetta side effects, such as severe diarrhea or allergic reactions.
What is Byetta used for? Byetta treats type 2 diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels. This eMedTV article explains how Byetta increases insulin production and decreases sugar production, and also explains why the medicine is not used in children.
The recommended starting Byetta dosing amount is 5 mcg injected twice daily. This portion of the eMedTV library outlines the factors that will determine your Byetta dosage and lists some tips on when and how to take the medication.
This eMedTV resource explores potential Byetta drug interactions with other medications, such as oral contraceptives, antibiotics, and Tylenol. This page also explains how these interactions can potentially decrease the effectiveness of the drugs.
This eMedTV article examines a number of Byetta warnings and precautions, such as potential drug interactions, possible allergic reactions, and the possible danger of taking the drug when pregnant. This page also explains who should not take Byetta.
This eMedTV resource explores weight loss and Byetta, explaining that weight loss does appear to be a side effect of the medication. This page also explains why Byetta might be a good choice for people who are overweight and have type 2 diabetes.
As this eMedTV segment explains, low and high blood sugar levels are possible effects of Byetta. Blood sugar levels that are too high or low can lead to serious complications. This page also highlights some symptoms of high and low blood sugar.
It may not be safe to take Byetta during pregnancy. This eMedTV article explores Byetta and pregnancy, explaining how the FDA has classified Byetta as a pregnancy Category C medicine and outlining some of the complications the drug may cause.
Although it is rare, it is possible to overdose on Byetta. This portion of the eMedTV Web site describes some Byetta overdose effects, such as severe vomiting or severe nausea. This page also outlines some treatment options for an overdose.
This eMedTV segment explains why there is currently no approved generic Byetta for sale in the United States. This article also explains that the earliest date a generic version could become available is 2013, when Byetta's first patent expires.
This portion of the eMedTV library takes an in-depth look at some of the Byetta alternatives, such as lifestyle changes and other diabetes medications or injections. This page also explains when it may be time to consider an alternative to Byetta.
