Byetta and Insulin Relase

Exenatide, with the trade name of Byetta, has been a useful addition to treatment options for type 2 diabetes. It is particularly useful in regulating after meal glucose. Diabet Med 2006 3;23(3):240-5

Since the timing of insulin dosing in relation to a meal is critical to such glucose regulation it is important to know the optimal time of Byetta administration. This research is an observation that the insulin values are markedly increased if the Byetta is given after meal as compared to Byetta given within an hour before a meal. Could the optimal time to give byetta be after a meal in certain circumstances?

This study provides very reassuring information suggesting that there is a large before meal window during which the drug can be administered.

Further research is warranted to understand the mechanisms underlying and the implications of the exaggerated insulin rise if the drug is administered after a meal.