Exenatide Injection for Diabetes: What You Need to Know

Do you have Type 2 Diabetes? If so, your doctor may have prescribed you a medication called Exenatide. It usually comes in a pen-like form, making it easy to administer. So today, let's talk about this medication, how it works in our bodies, what to watch out for when using it, and the possible side effects, in a simple, easy-to-understand way.

What really happens with this Exenatide drug?

Simply put, Exenatide is a medication that helps control type 2 diabetes. It does three main things:

1. Produces more insulin: This medicine helps increase the level of insulin in your body when you eat. Insulin is a hormone that helps the sugar (glucose) in our blood enter our cells and make energy. So when insulin increases, blood sugar levels decrease.

2. Reduces sugar production by the liver: This medicine also controls the unnecessary addition of sugar to the blood by our liver.

3. Digestion is done properly: This is also very important. When you digest the food you eat properly, the sudden increase in sugar in the blood stops, making it easier to control sugar levels.

Things you need to tell your doctor before using the medicine

Your doctor will ask you a few questions before giving you this medicine. But you should also make sure to inform your doctor about these things.

• Have you ever had pancreatitis before?
• Do you have a kidney problem or are you undergoing dialysis treatment ?
• Are you low in blood cells like platelets ?
• Is there any disease in the stomach or intestines ?
• Are you allergic to Exenatide, any other medicine, food, or dye?
• Are you pregnant or expecting a baby ?
• Are you a breastfeeding mother ?

This information will help your doctor a lot in deciding on the right treatment for you.

How exactly do you use this medicine?

This is an injection that is given under the skin. It is usually given in the upper thigh, abdomen, or upper arm . Your doctor or nurse will show you exactly how to give it. Follow the instructions exactly. Take the correct dose at the correct time. Do not take more than your doctor tells you to.

What do you do with used needles?

This is very important. Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. Doing so can be dangerous to others. They should be placed in a special plastic container (sharps container). If you don't have one, ask your doctor about how you can get one.

What to do if you take too much?

If you think you have taken an overdose , don't panic. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or, without wasting time, go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

What if I miss a medication appointment?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time.

Be careful of these things when taking medication.

• Regular checkups: Go to the clinic at regular intervals as prescribed by your doctor and check your condition.
• HbA1C test: There is a blood test called HbA1C. This tests how well you have controlled your blood sugar over the past 2-3 months. Your doctor will tell you to do this test at regular intervals.
• Measuring blood sugar levels: Learn how to check your blood sugar levels at home. Be aware of the symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.
• Keep a source of sugar nearby: Always keep something to eat, such as a toffee, a sugar cube, or a glucose tablet, in case your blood sugar drops. But if your blood sugar drops too low and you lose consciousness, don't put anything in your mouth, as it can cause choking. In such a case, you should immediately go to the hospital.
• Do not share your pen: Do not share your injection pen with anyone . Even if you share the needle, you can spread dangerous viruses like HIV and Hepatitis.
• Medical ID: Wearing a card or bracelet that lists your diabetes and the medications you take can help save your life in an emergency.

What are the possible side effects?

Like any medicine, Exenatide can cause side effects in some people. Some of these are serious, while others are mild. It is important to be aware of these.

How should I store the medicine?

• Unused pens: Store these in a cool place, such as the door of the fridge. Store at a temperature between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius. Never store in the freezer. Do not use the medicine if it has frozen.
• After first use: After first use, you can store your pen at room temperature (below 25 degrees Celsius).
• Disposal: Dispose of the pen after 30 days of use or when the expiration date arrives (whichever comes first).
• Keep the needle removed: Do not leave the pen with the needle attached. Doing so may cause the medicine to leak or air bubbles to form inside the medicine chamber.

I hope this information will help you gain a better understanding of this medication. Remember, if you have any questions or concerns, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about it.

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