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How does Bydureon work?

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

Official answer

by drugclasses.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.drugclasses.com/pro/bydureon.html

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How long does it take for Bydureon Bcise to take effect?

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

How long can Bydureon be unrefrigerated?

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

How and where is the Bydureon injection given?

The Bydureon pen was discontinued in March 2021 and has been replaced by Bydureon Bcise Autoinjector. The Bydureon BCise autoinjector is easy to use and can be self-injected at home once a week. If you have trouble injecting it yourself, you could ask a family member, friend, caregiver, or your health provider to do it for you. Bydureon BCise is injected subcutaneously (this means just under the skin) and there are 3 main areas where it can be injected:

  • The stomach area (your belly) except for a 2-inch circle around your navel (belly button)
  • The top and outer part of your thighs, but not your inner thighs or anywhere close to your knee
  • The outer back of your upper arm where there is a pocket of fatty tissue (this is usually easier if somebody else is giving you the injection).
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