First in a new class of medicines to treat type 2 diabetes launched
Exenatide (Byetta), the first in a new class of medicines to treat type 2 diabetes, was launched at the Diabetes UK annual conference in Glasgow this week.
Exenatide is an incretin mimetic developed by Lilly and Amylin Pharmaceuticals.
It works by improving beta cell function by mimicking the effects of
a naturally occurring incretin hormone protein called glucagon-like peptide-1.
Exenatide also suppresses inappropriate secretion of glucagon, which
is common in people with type 2 diabetes; this decreases beta cell workload
and increases beta cell response. It also slows emptying of food from
the stomach.
Exenatide is indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus
in combination with metformin or sulphonylureas, or both, in patients
who have not achieved adequate glycaemic control on maximally tolerated
doses of these oral therapies. It is given twice daily by subcutaneous
injection up to 60 minutes before a main meal. The dose does not need
to be altered to match meal size or planned activities. In clinical trials
exenatide reduced HbA1c and
body weight in three placebo-controlled studies
when added to metformin, a sulphonylurea, or both (PJ, 12 June 2004,
p733).
Shailen Rao, an independent consultant pharmacist with experience of
diabetes care, told The Journal: “Exenatide provides a welcome
addition to the current treatment options for patients with type 2 diabetes.
Its effect on body weight is of particular interest and importance in
this group of patients.”
Exenatide is expected to be available in the UK from May 2007.
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