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How does Bydureon work?

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on Feb 21, 2023.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Bydureon works by mimicking the effects of a naturally occurring human incretin, called GLP-1. Incretins are gut-derived hormones, similar to glucagon, that are released in response to food ingestion, mainly when we eat glucose or fat. When GLP-1 binds to the GLP-1 receptor it causes an increase in our body’s production of insulin in response to food. When Bydureon is given by injection into the upper thigh once a week, it binds to the GLP-1 receptor, stimulating insulin release from the beta cells of the pancreas whenever we eat.

References
  • Bydureon (exenatide) [ Product Information] Updated 12/2022 https://www.drugs.com/pro/bydureon.html

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Bydureon Bcise starts working as soon as you inject the first dose but it may take two or more weeks before it has a noticeable effect on your blood sugar, and longer before it decreases your HbA1c levels. Bydureon Bcise builds up gradually in your body with each weekly dose and reaches its optimal level after 10 weeks of dosing. The extended-release delivery system keeps a consistent level of medicine in your body. Continue reading

Bydureon can be left unrefrigerated at room temperature for up to 4 weeks (28 days) as long as the temperature in the room does not exceed 86°F (30°C). This will allow you to take your weekly dose with you, especially if you are traveling. Never leave your Bydureon pen in the sun or a hot place, like your car's jockey box, because it will become too hot. And do not put it back in the refrigerator if it has been out of the refrigerator for longer than an hour. Continue reading

The Bydureon pen was discontinued in March 2021 and has been replaced by Bydureon Bcise Autoinjector. The Bydureon Bcise Autoinjector has been designed to be easy to use. There is no need to attach a needle (the hidden needle is already attached) or turn a dial. Always store your Bydureon Bcise autoinjector flat in the refrigerator. It can be self-injected at home once a week and it is easy to learn how to administer it yourself. If you have difficulty injecting it, a family member, friend, caregiver, or healthcare provider may be able to do it for you. Instructions for injecting the Bydureon Bcise autoinjector are given below. Continue reading

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