Diabetes is a health condition that many people in our society have today. There are various treatments for this. Perhaps your doctor has also told you to use a vaccine called Exenatide for Type 2 Diabetes. You may have received this under the brand name Bydureon BCise. So today, let's talk about this medicine, how it affects our body, and what you need to be careful about while using it.
What actually happens with this Exenatide injection?
Simply put, Exenatide is a drug that helps control your blood sugar (glucose) levels. This does three main things.
1. Increases insulin levels: This medicine helps your body produce a hormone called insulin when you eat. Insulin helps the sugar in the blood enter the body's cells and produce energy. So, the blood sugar level decreases.
2. Reduces sugar production by the liver: This medicine also helps reduce the amount of sugar released by our liver.
3. Slows down digestion: This slows down the rate at which the food you eat moves from your stomach to your intestines. This helps control the sudden spike in blood sugar levels after eating.
But remember, this medicine alone is not enough. A good diet and exercise are both essential parts of this treatment.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting vaccinations
Before you are given Exenatide, it is very important that your doctor knows your complete health history. Be sure to tell them about any of the conditions below.
| Situation you need to report | Why should you care? |
|---|---|
| If you or someone in your family has had thyroid cancer or a cancer of the endocrine glands called MEN 2 . | There is a warning that this drug may be associated with an increased risk of some thyroid cancers. |
| If you have previously had pancreatitis . | This medication may increase the risk of pancreatitis. |
| If you have kidney disease or are undergoing dialysis . | Depending on kidney function, the dosage of the medication may need to be changed or a different medication may need to be prescribed. |
| If you have severe stomach or intestinal problems (e.g. Gastroparesis). | Because this medication slows down digestion, it may worsen the existing condition. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding . | You should discuss the safety of this medication with your doctor during pregnancy and breastfeeding. |
| If you have an allergy to exenatide or any other medicine, food, or dye. | This is essential to avoid severe allergic reactions. |
How exactly is this vaccine used?
This medicine comes in a pre-filled syringe (autoinjector). Your doctor or nurse will show you how to inject it subcutaneously.
- Take it on time: This vaccine should be given once a week . Get in the habit of taking it on the same day and at the same time every week. Continue taking it until your doctor tells you to stop.
- Disposing of used needles: This is very important. Never throw used autoinjectors in the trash. They should be placed in a special sharps container. If you don't have one, ask your doctor for one.
- Read the instructions: Always read the instructions (MedGuide/INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE) that come with the medicine carefully. If you have any questions, ask your doctor.
Important: The injection needle prescribed for you is for you only. Never share it with anyone else. Doing so can spread dangerous viruses like Hepatitis and HIV.
What to do if you miss a dose?
Imagine you forgot to get your vaccination on a weekday. Don't worry.
- If it is more than 3 days until your next dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose as usual.
- However, if your next dose is due in 1 or 2 days , do not take the missed dose. Skip it and just take the next dose on the scheduled day.
- Do not take a double dose for any reason.
Other things to keep in mind when taking the medicine
- Medical tests: Keep seeing your doctor to check your condition. You should also ask about a blood test called HbA1C (A1C) . This measures how well your blood sugar has been controlled over the past 2-3 months. Your doctor will likely recommend that you have this test every 3-6 months.
- Blood Sugar Levels: Learn how to test your blood sugar at home. Be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar (Hypoglycemia) and high blood sugar (Hyperglycemia).
- Low blood sugar (Hypoglycemia): If you experience symptoms such as sweating, trembling, rapid heartbeat, extreme hunger, and confusion, it means that your blood sugar is low. Always keep something like sugar, toffee, or glucose tablets nearby for use in such a situation. However, if the condition is severe enough to cause unconsciousness, do not give anything by mouth, as it can cause choking. Seek immediate medical attention.
- Don't skip meals: Eat at regular times. Ask your doctor about alcohol.
- Medical ID: Wearing a card or bracelet that states that you have diabetes and the medications you take can be very important in an emergency.
Possible side effects of the medicine
Like any medication, Exenatide can cause some side effects. It is important to be aware of these.
| If you experience these symptoms, tell your doctor immediately or go to a hospital. | |
|---|---|
| Severe allergic reactions | Skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| Pancreatitis | Unbearable pain in the stomach (especially radiating to the back), pain that worsens when eating, fever, nausea, and vomiting. |
| Thyroid cancer symptoms | A new lump or swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, change in voice (hoarseness). |
| Kidney damage | Decreased urination, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. |
| Gallbladder problems | Severe pain in the upper right side of the stomach, nausea, vomiting, fever. |
| If these symptoms persist or become bothersome, tell your doctor. | |
| Vaccination site | Pain, redness, itching, or a small lump. |
| Other minor ailments | Mild nausea, diarrhea, constipation, headache. |
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital (telephone number 0112686143), or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Take-Home Message
- Exenatide is a once-weekly injection for type 2 diabetes. It should be used in conjunction with diet and exercise.
- Before starting the vaccine, tell your doctor about all your health conditions (especially thyroid, pancreas, kidney problems).
- Never share the injection needle prescribed for you with anyone else. Dispose of used injection needles safely.
- Be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Keep some sugar or a candy bar nearby for when you need it.
- If you experience severe side effects such as severe stomach pain, neck stiffness, or difficulty breathing, seek medical advice immediately.
- Feel free to discuss any questions or concerns you have about this medication with your doctor.
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