Exenatide
Injection · Subcutaneous
Uses
Exenatide injection is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Exenatide injection is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. ( 1 , 14 ) Limitations of Use Co-administration with other exenatide-containing products is not recommended. ( 1 ) Limitations of Use Exenatide injection contains exenatide. Co-administration with other exenatide-containing products is not recommended.
Dosage and administration
Inject subcutaneously within 60 minutes prior to morning and evening meals (or before the two main meals of the day, approximately 6 hours or more apart). ( 2.1 ) Initiate at 5 mcg per dose twice daily; increase to 10 mcg twice daily after 1 month based on clinical response. ( 2.1 ) 2.1 Recommended Dosing Initiate exenatide injection at 5 mcg administered subcutaneously twice daily at any time within the 60-minute period before the morning and evening meals (or before the two main meals of the day, approximately 6 hours or more apart). Do not administer after a meal. Based on clinical response, the dose of exenatide injection can be increased to 10 mcg twice daily which is recommended after 1 month of therapy, in order to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) and Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . Administer as a subcutaneous injection in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. Rotate injections sites with each dose. Do not use the same site for each injection. Inspect visually for particulate matter and discoloration. Only use exenatide injection if the solution appears clear, colorless and contains no particles. When using exenatide injection with insulin, administer as separate injections and never mix. It is acceptable to inject exenatide injection and insulin in the same body region, but the injections should not be adjacent to each other. If a dose is missed, resume the treatment regimen as prescribed with the next scheduled dose.
Dosage forms and strengths
Exenatide Injection, USP is a clear, colorless sterile solution for subcutaneous injection containing 250 mcg/mL exenatide, USP supplied as follows: 5 mcg per dose in a single-patient-use prefilled pen containing 300 mcg/1.2 mL (250mcg/mL), 60 doses. 10 mcg per dose in a single-patient-use prefilled pen containing 600 mcg/2.4 mL (250mcg/mL), 60 doses. Exenatide injection is supplied as: 5 mcg per dose, in a single-patient-use prefilled pen containing 300 mcg/1.2 mL (250 mcg/mL), 60 doses. 10 mcg per dose, in a single-patient-use prefilled pen containing 600 mcg/2.4 mL (250 mcg/mL), 60 doses.
Contraindications
Exenatide injection is contraindicated in patients with: A prior severe hypersensitivity reaction to exenatide or to any of the excipients in exenatide injection. Serious hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis and angioedema have been reported with exenatide injection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] . A history of drug-induced immune-mediated thrombocytopenia from exenatide products. Serious bleeding, which may be fatal, from drug-induced immune-mediated thrombocytopenia has been reported with exenatide use [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ]. History of severe hypersensitivity to exenatide or any of the excipients in exenatide injection. ( 4 ) History of drug-induced immune-mediated thrombocytopenia from exenatide products. ( 4 )
Warnings and precautions
Acute Pancreatitis : Has been observed in patients treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists, including exenatide. Discontinue if pancreatitis is suspected. ( 5.1 ) Never share an exenatide injection pen between patients, even if the needle is changed. ( 5.2 ) Hypoglycemia with Concomitant Use of Insulin Secretagogues or Insulin : Patients taking an insulin secretagogue or insulin may have an increased risk of hypoglycemia, including severe hypoglycemia. Reduction in the dose of insulin secretagogues or insulin may be necessary. ( 5.3 ) Acute Kidney Injury Due to Volume Depletion : Monitor renal function in patients reporting adverse reactions that could lead to volume depletion. ( 5.4 ) Severe Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions : Use has been associated with gastrointestinal adverse reactions, sometimes severe. Exenatide is not recommended in patients with severe gastroparesis. ( 5.5 ) Immunogenicity : Patients may develop antibodies to exenatide. If there is worsening glycemic control or failure to achieve target glycemic control, consider alternative antidiabetic therapy. ( 5.6 ) Hypersensitivity : Serious hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis and angioedema) have been reported. Discontinue exenatide and promptly seek medical advice. ( 5.7 ) Drug-induced Immune-mediated Thrombocytopenia : Serious bleeding which may be fatal has been reported. Discontinue exenatide promptly and avoid re-exposure to exenatide. ( 5.8 ) Acute Gallbladder Disease: If cholelithiasis or cholecystitis are suspected, gallbladder studies are indicated. ( 5.9 ) Pulmonary Aspiration During General Anesthesia or Deep Sedation: Has been reported in patients receiving GLP-1 receptor agonists undergoing elective surgeries or procedures. Instruct patients to inform healthcare providers of any planned surgeries or procedures. ( 5.10 ) 5.1 Acute Pancreatitis Acute pancreatitis, including fatal and non-fatal hemorrhagic or necrotizing pancreatitis, has been observed in patients treated with glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, including exenatide [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ]. After initiation of exenatide, observe patients carefully for signs and symptoms of acute pancreatitis which may include persistent or severe abdominal pain (sometimes radiating to the back) and which may or may not be accompanied by nausea or vomiting. If pancreatitis is suspected, discontinue exenatide and initiate appropriate management. 5.2 Never Share an Exenatide Injection Pen Between Patients Exenatide injection pens must never be shared between patients, even if the needle is changed. Pen-sharing poses a risk for transmission of blood-borne pathogens. 5.3 Hypoglycemia with Concomitant Use of Insulin Secretagogues or Insulin Patients receiving exenatide in combination with an insulin secretagogue (e.g., sulfonylurea) or insulin may have an increased risk of hypoglycemia including severe hypoglycemia [see Adverse Reactions (6) and Drug Interactions (7) ] . The risk of hypoglycemia may be lowered by a reduction in the dose of sulfonylurea (or other concomitantly administered insulin secretagogue) or insulin. Inform patients using these concomitant medications of the risk of hypoglycemia and educate them on the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia. 5.4 Acute Kidney Injury Due to Volume Depletion There have been post-marketing reports of acute kidney injury, in some cases requiring hemodialysis, in patients treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists, exenatide [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ]. The majority of the reported events occurred in patients who experienced gastrointestinal reactions leading to dehydration such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea [see Adverse Reactions (6) ]. Monitor renal function in patients reporting adverse reactions to exenatide that could lead to volume depletion, especially during dosage initiation and escalation of exenatide. Exenatide is not recommended in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min) or end-stage renal disease and should be used with caution in patients with renal transplantation [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) ] . 5.5 Severe Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions Use of GLP-1 receptor agonists, including exenatide, has been associated with gastrointestinal adverse reactions, sometimes severe [see Adverse Reactions (6) ]. Severe gastrointestinal adverse reactions have also been reported postmarketing with GLP-1 receptor agonists. Exenatide is not recommended in patients with severe gastroparesis. 5.6 Immunogenicity Patients may develop antibodies to exenatide following treatment with exenatide. Antibody levels were measured in 90% of subjects in the 30-week, 24-week, and 16-week placebo-controlled studies and the 30-week comparator-controlled study of exenatide. In 3%, 4%, 1% and 1% of these patients, respectively, antibody formation was associated with an attenuated glycemic response. If there is worsening glycemic control or failure to achieve targeted glycemic control, alternative antidiabetic therapy should be considered [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . 5.7 Hypersensitivity There have been post-marketing reports of serious hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis and angioedema) in patients treated with exenatide. If a hypersensitivity reaction occurs, the patient should discontinue exenatide and other suspect medications and promptly seek medical advice. Inform and closely monitor patients with a history of anaphylaxis or angioedema with another GLP-1 receptor agonist for allergic reactions, because it is unknown whether such patients will be predisposed to anaphylaxis with exenatide [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ] . 5.8 Drug-Induced Thrombocytopenia Serious bleeding, which may be fatal, from drug-induced immune-mediated thrombocytopenia has been reported in the post-marketing setting with exenatide use. Drug-induced thrombocytopenia is an immune-mediated reaction, with exenatide-dependent anti-platelet antibodies.
Side effects
The following serious adverse reactions are described below or elsewhere in the prescribing information: Acute Pancreatitis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Never Share an Exenatide Pen Between Patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Hypoglycemia with Concomitant Use of Insulin Secretagogues or Insulin [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Acute Kidney Injury Due to Volume Depletion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Severe Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Immunogenicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Hypersensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Drug-Induced Thrombocytopenia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] Acute Gallbladder Disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] Pulmonary Aspiration During General Anesthesia or Deep Sedation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] Most common (≥ 5%) and occurring more frequently than placebo in clinical trials: nausea, hypoglycemia, vomiting, diarrhea, feeling jittery, dizziness, headache, dyspepsia, constipation, asthenia. Nausea usually decreases over time. ( 5.3 , 6 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC at 1-877-835-5472 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trial Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Hypoglycemia Table 1 summarizes the incidence and rate of hypoglycemia with exenatide in six placebo-controlled clinical trials. Table 1: Incidence (%) and Rate of Hypoglycemia when Exenatide was used as Monotherapy or with Concomitant Antidiabetic Therapy in Six Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials * Placebo BID Exenatide 5 mcg BID Exenatide 10 mcg BID Monotherapy (24 Weeks) N 77 77 78 % Overall 1.3% 5.2% 3.8% Rate (episodes/patient-year) 0.03 0.21 0.52 % Severe 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% With Metformin (30 Weeks) N 113 110 113 % Overall 5.3% 4.5% 5.3% Rate (episodes/patient-year) 0.12 0.13 0.12 % Severe 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% With a Sulfonylurea (30 Weeks) N 123 125 129 % Overall 3.3% 14.4% 35.7% Rate (episodes/patient-year) 0.07 0.64 1.61 % Severe 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% With Metformin and a Sulfonylurea (30 Weeks) N 247 245 241 % Overall 12.6% 19.2% 27.8% Rate (episodes/patient-year) 0.58 0.78 1.71 % Severe 0.0% 0.4% 0.0% With a Thiazolidinedione (16 Weeks) N 112 not evaluated 121 % Overall 7.1% not evaluated 10.7% Rate (episodes/patient-years) 0.56 not evaluated 0.98 % Severe 0.0% not evaluated 0.0% With Insulin Glargine with or without Metformin and/or Thiazolidinedione (30 Weeks) † N 122 not evaluated 137 % Overall 29.5% not evaluated 24.8% Rate (episodes/patient-years) 1.58 not evaluated 1.61 % Severe 0.8% not evaluated 0.0% * A hypoglycemic episode was recorded if a patient reported symptoms of hypoglycemia with or without a blood glucose value consistent with hypoglycemia. Severe hypoglycemia was defined as an event with symptoms consistent with hypoglycemia requiring the assistance of another person and associated with either a documented blood glucose value < 54 mg/dL or prompt recovery after treatment for hypoglycemia. † When exenatide was initiated in combination with insulin glargine, the dose of insulin glargine was decreased by 20% in patients with an HbA 1c ≤ 8.0% to minimize the risk of hypoglycemia. See Table 10 for insulin dose titration algorithm. N = number of Intent-to-Treat subjects in each treatment group. Immunogenicity Antibodies were assessed in 90% of subjects in the 30-week, 24-week, and 16-week studies of exenatide. In the 30-week controlled trials of exenatide add-on to metformin and/or sulfonylurea, antibodies were assessed at 2- to 6-week intervals. The mean antibody titer peaked at Week 6 and was reduced by 55% by Week 30. Three hundred and sixty patients (38%) had low titer antibodies (< 625) to exenatide at 30 weeks. The level of glycemic control (HbA 1c ) in these patients was generally comparable to that observed in the 534 patients (56%) without antibody titers. An additional 59 patients (6%) had higher titer antibodies (≥ 625) at 30 weeks. Of these patients, 32 (3% overall) had an attenuated glycemic response to exenatide; the remaining 27 (3% overall) had a glycemic response comparable to that of patients without antibodies. In the 16-week trial of exenatide add-on to thiazolidinediones, with or without metformin, 36 patients (31%) had low titer antibodies to exenatide at 16 weeks. The level of glycemic control in these patients was generally comparable to that observed in the 69 patients (60%) without antibody titer. An additional 10 patients (9%) had higher titer antibodies at 16 weeks. Of these patients, 4 (4% overall) had an attenuated glycemic response to exenatide; the remaining 6 (5% overall) had a glycemic response comparable to that of patients without antibodies. In the 24-week trial of exenatide used as monotherapy, 40 patients (28%) had low titer antibodies to exenatide at 24 weeks. The level of glycemic control in these patients was generally comparable to that observed in the 101 patients (70%) without antibody titers. An additional 3 patients (2%) had higher titer antibodies at 24 weeks. Of these patients, 1 (1% overall) had an attenuated glycemic response to exenatide; the remaining 2 (1% overall) had a glycemic response comparable to that of patients without antibodies. Antibodies to exenatide were not assessed in the 30-week placebo-controlled trial of exenatide used in combination with insulin glargine. In the 30-week comparator-controlled trial of exenatide used in combination with insulin glargine and metformin, 60 patients (20%) had low titer antibodies to exenatide at 30 weeks. The level of glycemic control in these patients was generally comparable to that observed in the 234 patients (77%) without antibody titers.
Drug interactions
Table 6: Clinically Relevant Interactions with Exenatide Concomitant Use of Insulin Secretagogues or Insulin Clinical Impact Exenatide promotes insulin release from pancreatic beta-cells in the presence of elevated glucose concentrations. The risk of hypoglycemia is increased when exenatide is used in combination with insulin secretagogues (e.g., sulfonylureas) or insulin [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) and Adverse Reactions (6) ] . Intervention When initiating exenatide, consider reducing the dose of concomitantly administered insulin secretagogue or insulin to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia. Warfarin Clinical Impact In a drug interaction study, exenatide did not have a significant effect on INR [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . There have been post-marketing reports for exenatide of increased INR with concomitant use of warfarin, sometimes associated with bleeding [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ] . Intervention In patients taking warfarin, the prothrombin time should be monitored more frequently after initiation or alteration of exenatide therapy. Once a stable prothrombin time has been documented, the prothrombin time can be monitored at the intervals recommended for patients taking warfarin. Orally Administered Drugs (e.g., acetaminophen) Clinical Impact Exenatide slows gastric emptying. Therefore, exenatide has the potential to reduce the rate of absorption of orally administered drugs [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Intervention Use caution when administering oral medications with exenatide where a slower rate of oral absorption may be clinically meaningful. For oral medications that are dependent on threshold concentrations for efficacy, such as contraceptives and antibiotics, patients should be advised to take those drugs at least 1 hour before exenatide injection. If such drugs are to be administered with food, patients should be advised to take them with a meal or snack when exenatide is not administered [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . May impact absorption of orally administered medications. ( 7 ) Warfarin: Post-marketing reports of increased INR sometimes associated with bleeding. Monitor INR frequently until stable upon initiation or alteration of exenatide therapy. ( 7 )
Use in specific populations
Pregnancy: Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the fetus. ( 8.1 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Limited data with exenatide in pregnant women are not sufficient to determine a drug-associated risk for major birth defects or miscarriage. There are risks to the mother and fetus associated with poorly controlled diabetes in pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations) . Based on animal reproduction studies, there may be risks to the fetus from exposure to exenatide during pregnancy. Exenatide should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Animal reproduction studies identified increased adverse fetal and neonatal outcomes from exposure to exenatide during pregnancy and lactation in association with maternal effects. In mice, exenatide administered during gestation and lactation caused increased neonatal deaths at systemic exposure 3-times the human exposure resulting from the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 20 mcg/day for exenatide (see Data) . The estimated background risk of major birth defects is 6% to 10% in women with pre-gestational diabetes with an HbA 1c > 7 and has been reported to be as high as 20% to 25% in women with HbA 1c > 10. The estimated background risk of miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal and/or embryofetal risk Poorly controlled diabetes in pregnancy increases the maternal risk for diabetic ketoacidosis, preeclampsia, spontaneous abortions, preterm delivery, and delivery complications. Poorly controlled diabetes increases the fetal risk for major birth defects, stillbirth, and macrosomia related morbidity. Data Animal Data In studies evaluating reproduction and development in pregnant mice and rabbits, maternal animals were administered exenatide, the active ingredient in exenatide injection, by subcutaneous injection twice a day. In pregnant mice given 6, 68, 460, or 760 mcg/kg/day exenatide during fetal organogenesis, skeletal variations associated with slowed fetal growth, including changes in number of rib pairs or vertebral ossifications sites, and wavy ribs were observed at 760 mcg/kg/day, a dose that produced maternal toxicity and yielded systemic exposure 390-times the human exposure resulting from the MRHD of exenatide based on AUC comparison. In pregnant rabbits given 0.2, 2, 22, 156, or 260 mcg/kg/day exenatide during fetal organogenesis, irregular fetal skeletal ossifications were observed at 2 mcg/kg/day, a dose yielding systemic exposure up to 12-times the human exposure from the MRHD of exenatide based on AUC comparison. In maternal mice given 6, 68, or 760 mcg/kg/day exenatide from gestation day 6 through lactation day 20 (weaning), an increased number of neonatal deaths was observed on postpartum days 2 to 4 in dams given 6 mcg/kg/day, a dose yielding a systemic exposure 3-times the human exposure from the MRHD of exenatide based on AUC comparison. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There is no information regarding the presence of exenatide, in human milk, the effects of exenatide on the breastfed infant, or the effects of exenatide on milk production. Exenatide was present in the milk of lactating mice. However, due to species-specific differences in lactation physiology, the clinical relevance of these data is not clear (see Data) . The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for exenatide and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from exenatide or from the underlying maternal condition. Data In lactating mice subcutaneously injected twice a day with exenatide, the concentration of exenatide in milk was up to 2.5% of the concentration in maternal plasma. 8.4 Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness of exenatide have not been established in pediatric patients. Effectiveness of exenatide was not demonstrated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted in 120 pediatric patients (78 received exenatide and 42 received placebo) aged 10 to 17 years with type 2 diabetes mellitus. 8.5 Geriatric Use Population pharmacokinetic analysis of patients ranging from 22 to 73 years of age suggests that age does not influence the pharmacokinetic properties of exenatide [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Exenatide was studied in 282 patients 65 years of age or older and in 16 patients 75 years of age or older. No differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection in the elderly based on renal function. 8.6 Renal Impairment Exenatide is not recommended for use in patients with end-stage renal disease or severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min) and should be used with caution in patients with renal transplantation. In patients with end-stage renal disease receiving dialysis, single doses of exenatide 5 mcg were not well-tolerated due to gastrointestinal adverse reactions [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . 8.7 Hepatic Impairment No pharmacokinetic study has been performed in patients with a diagnosis of acute or chronic hepatic impairment. Because exenatide is cleared primarily by the kidney, hepatic dysfunction is not expected to affect blood concentrations of exenatide [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] .
Pregnancy
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Limited data with exenatide in pregnant women are not sufficient to determine a drug-associated risk for major birth defects or miscarriage. There are risks to the mother and fetus associated with poorly controlled diabetes in pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations) . Based on animal reproduction studies, there may be risks to the fetus from exposure to exenatide during pregnancy. Exenatide should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Animal reproduction studies identified increased adverse fetal and neonatal outcomes from exposure to exenatide during pregnancy and lactation in association with maternal effects. In mice, exenatide administered during gestation and lactation caused increased neonatal deaths at systemic exposure 3-times the human exposure resulting from the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 20 mcg/day for exenatide (see Data) . The estimated background risk of major birth defects is 6% to 10% in women with pre-gestational diabetes with an HbA 1c > 7 and has been reported to be as high as 20% to 25% in women with HbA 1c > 10. The estimated background risk of miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal and/or embryofetal risk Poorly controlled diabetes in pregnancy increases the maternal risk for diabetic ketoacidosis, preeclampsia, spontaneous abortions, preterm delivery, and delivery complications. Poorly controlled diabetes increases the fetal risk for major birth defects, stillbirth, and macrosomia related morbidity. Data Animal Data In studies evaluating reproduction and development in pregnant mice and rabbits, maternal animals were administered exenatide, the active ingredient in exenatide injection, by subcutaneous injection twice a day. In pregnant mice given 6, 68, 460, or 760 mcg/kg/day exenatide during fetal organogenesis, skeletal variations associated with slowed fetal growth, including changes in number of rib pairs or vertebral ossifications sites, and wavy ribs were observed at 760 mcg/kg/day, a dose that produced maternal toxicity and yielded systemic exposure 390-times the human exposure resulting from the MRHD of exenatide based on AUC comparison. In pregnant rabbits given 0.2, 2, 22, 156, or 260 mcg/kg/day exenatide during fetal organogenesis, irregular fetal skeletal ossifications were observed at 2 mcg/kg/day, a dose yielding systemic exposure up to 12-times the human exposure from the MRHD of exenatide based on AUC comparison. In maternal mice given 6, 68, or 760 mcg/kg/day exenatide from gestation day 6 through lactation day 20 (weaning), an increased number of neonatal deaths was observed on postpartum days 2 to 4 in dams given 6 mcg/kg/day, a dose yielding a systemic exposure 3-times the human exposure from the MRHD of exenatide based on AUC comparison.
Pediatric use
8.4 Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness of exenatide have not been established in pediatric patients. Effectiveness of exenatide was not demonstrated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted in 120 pediatric patients (78 received exenatide and 42 received placebo) aged 10 to 17 years with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Geriatric use
8.5 Geriatric Use Population pharmacokinetic analysis of patients ranging from 22 to 73 years of age suggests that age does not influence the pharmacokinetic properties of exenatide [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Exenatide was studied in 282 patients 65 years of age or older and in 16 patients 75 years of age or older. No differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection in the elderly based on renal function.
Overdosage
In a clinical study of exenatide, three patients with type 2 diabetes each experienced a single overdose of 100 mcg SC (10-times the maximum recommended dose). Effects of the overdoses included severe nausea, severe vomiting and rapidly declining blood glucose concentrations. One of the three patients experienced severe hypoglycemia requiring parenteral glucose administration. The three patients recovered without complication. In the event of overdose, consider contacting the Poison Help line (1-800-222-1222) or a medical toxicologist for additional overdosage management recommendations. Initiate appropriate supportive treatment according to the patient’s clinical signs and symptoms.
Description
Exenatide is a synthetic peptide, GLP-1 receptor agonist, that was originally identified in the lizard Heloderma suspectum . Exenatide is a 39-amino acid peptide amide. Exenatide has the empirical formula C 184 H 282 N 50 O 60 S and molecular weight of 4186.6 Daltons. The amino acid sequence for exenatide is shown below. H-His-Gly-Glu-Gly-Thr-Phe-Thr-Ser-Asp-Leu-Ser-Lys-Gln-Met-Glu-Glu-Glu-Ala-Val-Arg-Leu-Phe-Ile-Glu-Trp-Leu-Lys-Asn-Gly-Gly-Pro-Ser-Ser-Gly-Ala-Pro-Pro-Pro-Ser-NH 2 Exenatide injection, USP is supplied for subcutaneous administration as a sterile, preserved isotonic solution in a glass cartridge that has been assembled in a pen-injector (pen). Each milliliter (mL) contains 250 micrograms (mcg) synthetic exenatide, USP; 2.2 mg metacresol as an antimicrobial preservative; mannitol as a tonicity-adjusting agent; and glacial acetic acid and sodium acetate trihydrate in water for injection as a buffering solution at pH 4.5. Two prefilled pens are available to deliver unit doses of 5 mcg per dose or 10 mcg per dose. Each prefilled pen will deliver 60 doses to provide for 30 days of twice daily administration (BID). Each prefilled device is filled with volume to allow delivery of 1.2 mL or 2.4 mL. Each device contains additional volume to allow for troubleshooting the device 4 times.
Mechanism of action
12.1 Mechanism of Action Incretins, such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), enhance glucose-dependent insulin secretion and exhibit other antihyperglycemic actions following their release into the circulation from the gut. Exenatide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion by the pancreatic beta-cell, suppresses inappropriately elevated glucagon secretion, and slows gastric emptying. The amino acid sequence of exenatide partially overlaps that of human GLP-1. Exenatide has been shown to bind and activate the human GLP-1 receptor in vitro . This leads to an increase in both glucose-dependent synthesis of insulin, and in vivo secretion of insulin from pancreatic beta cells, by mechanisms involving cyclic AMP and/or other intracellular signaling pathways. Exenatide improves glycemic control by reducing fasting and postprandial glucose concentrations in patients with type 2 diabetes through the actions described below.
How supplied
16.1 How Supplied Exenatide Injection, USP is supplied as a clear, colorless sterile solution for subcutaneous injection containing 250 mcg/mL exenatide, USP. The following packages are available: 5 mcg per dose, in a single-patient-use prefilled pen containing 300 mcg/1.2 mL (250mcg/mL), 60 doses: NDC 70121-1685-1 10 mcg per dose, in a single-patient-use prefilled pen containing 600 mcg/2.4 mL (250mcg/mL), 60 doses: NDC 70121-1686-1 16.2 Storage and Handling Store exenatide injection in the refrigerator at 36 ○ to 46 ○ F (2 ○ to 8 ○ C). After first use, exenatide injection can be kept at a temperature not to exceed 77 ○ F (25 ○ C). Do not freeze. Do not use exenatide injection if it has been frozen. Protect exenatide injection from light. Discard the pen 30 days after first use, even if some drug remains in the pen. Use a puncture-resistant container to discard the needles. Do not reuse or share needles.
Patient information
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide and Instructions for Use). Acute Pancreatitis Inform patients of the potential risk for acute pancreatitis and its symptoms: severe abdominal pain that may radiate to the back and which may or may not be accompanied by nausea or vomiting. Instruct patients to discontinue exenatide promptly and contact their physician if pancreatitis is suspected [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Never Share an Exenatide Injection Pen Between Patients Advise patients that they must never share an exenatide injection pen with another person, even if the needle is changed, because doing so carries a risk for transmission of blood-borne pathogens [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Hypoglycemia with Concomitant Use of Insulin Secretagogues or Insulin Inform patients that the risk of hypoglycemia is increased when exenatide is used in combination with an agent that induces hypoglycemia, such as a sulfonylurea or insulin. Educate patients on the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] . Acute Kidney Injury Due to Volume Depletion Inform patients of the potential risk of acute kidney injury due to dehydration associated with gastrointestinal adverse reactions. Advise patients to take precautions to avoid fluid depletion. Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of acute kidney injury and instruct them to promptly report any of these signs or symptoms or persistent (or extended) nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea to their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . Severe Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions Inform patients of the potential risk of severe gastrointestinal adverse reactions. Instruct patients to contact their healthcare provider if they have severe or persistent gastrointestinal symptoms [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ]. Drug-Induced Thrombocytopenia Inform patients that drug-induced immune-mediated thrombocytopenia has been reported during use of exenatide. Inform patients that if symptoms of thrombocytopenia occur, stop taking exenatide and seek medical advice promptly [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] . Hypersensitivity Reactions Inform patients that serious hypersensitivity reactions have been reported during post-marketing use of exenatide. If symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions occur, instruct patients to stop taking exenatide and seek medical advice promptly [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] . Acute Gallbladder Disease Inform patients of the potential risk for cholelithiasis or cholecystitis. Instruct patients to contact their physician if cholelithiasis or cholecystitis is suspected for appropriate clinical follow-up [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] . Pulmonary Aspiration During General Anesthesia or Deep Sedation Inform patients that exenatide may cause their stomach to empty more slowly which may lead to complications with anesthesia or deep sedation during planned surgeries or procedures. Instruct patients to inform healthcare providers prior to any planned surgeries or procedures if they are taking exenatide [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)] . Pregnancy Advise patients to inform their physicians if they are pregnant or intend to become pregnant. Instructions Instruct patients to administer exenatide as a subcutaneous injection in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm at any time within the 60-minute period before the morning and evening meals (or before the two main meals of the day, approximately 6 hours or more apart). Do not administer exenatide injection after a meal. If a dose is missed, resume the treatment regimen as prescribed with the next scheduled dose. Manufactured by: Amneal Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd. Ahmedabad 382213, INDIA Distributed by: Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC Bridgewater, NJ 08807 Rev. 05-2026-09
Label text from the FDA structured product label by Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC (revised May 27, 2026). Long sections are shortened; the complete label is on DailyMed.
Active ingredients
- Exenatide in 2 products
Exenatide NDC products (2)
| NDC | Strength & form | Labeler | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 70121-1685 | Exenatide 250 ug/mL Injection | Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC | ANDA |
| 70121-1686 | Exenatide 250 ug/mL Injection | Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC | ANDA |
Frequently asked questions
What is Exenatide used for?
Exenatide injection is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Exenatide injection is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. ( 1 , 14 ) Limitations of Use Co-administration with other…
What are the side effects of Exenatide?
The following serious adverse reactions are described below or elsewhere in the prescribing information: Acute Pancreatitis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Never Share an Exenatide Pen Between Patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Hypoglycemia with Concomitant Use of Insulin Secretagogues or Insulin [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Acute Kidney Injury Due to Volume Depletion… See the full label for the complete list.
Who makes Exenatide?
Exenatide is listed by 1 labeler in the FDA NDC directory, including Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC.