Byetta is comprised of the drug Exenatide and is used to treat diabetes Mellitus Type 2. It is manufactured by Amylin Pharmaceuticals and Eli Lilly. The drug is administered via a subcutaneous injection and is designed to enhance the pancreatic response to eating meals. It also suppresses the pancreatic secretion of certain chemicals causing the liver to secrete glucose into the bloodstream. The FDA has enhanced warning labels affixed to Byetta to warn patients of the increased risk of acute pancreatitis and kidney problems.
Byetta is a prescription drug administered by an injection via syringe. The drug is designed to assist patients with Type 2 diabetes in blood sugar management when used in conjunction with proper diet and exercise. It is marketed to help those battling diabetes to achieve a healthier lifestyle through glucose management and suppression. It is not an insulin injection and is not intended to supplement or replace insulin therapy if the patient requires insulin shots.
Byetta has been linked with severe side effects that, although rare, can cause chronic or fatal reactions in patients. Studies have revealed a link between Byetta and acute pancreatitis. Kidney problems have also been reported in diabetes patients using the drug. Symptoms of pancreatitis include upper abdominal pain, pain radiating through the back, nausea, vomiting, elevated blood pressure and elevated breathing rates. As of 2009, 78 Byetta patients have been afflicted with chronic kidney problems as a result of exposure to the drug.
The FDA approved Byetta in 2005 and the drug remains on the market. Multiple lawsuits have commenced claiming that manufacturers of the drug failed to warn consumers of the potential for pancreatic or kidney failure and such failures caused the resulting injuries experienced by the injured plaintiffs.