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Exenatide is an injectable drug that reduces the level of sugar in the blood. It is used for treating type 2 diabetes. Exenatide belongs in a class of drugs called incretin mimetics because these drugs mimic the effects of incretins. Incretins are hormones that are produced and released into the blood by the intestine in response to food. It increases the secretion of insulin from the pancreas, slows absorption of glucose from the gut, and reduces the action of glucagon. Glucagon is a hormone that increases glucose production by the liver. All three of these actions reduce levels of glucose in the blood. In addition, it helps reduce appetite. Exenatide is a synthetic hormone that resembles and acts like incretins. In studies, exenatide-treated patients achieved lower blood glucose levels and experienced weight loss. Exenatide was approved by the FDA in May, 2005.

It is prescribed when patients with type 2 diabetes have not achieved adequate blood glucose reduction while taking metformin or a combination of metformin and a sulfonylurea. Exenatide is not used in patients with type 1 diabetes or as a substitute for insulin in patients who require insulin. There has been some side effects the most common is nausea. Other common side effects include hypoglycemia (excessively low blood glucose), vomiting, diarrhea, headache, nervousness and stomach discomfort. Patients may also experience decreased appetite, acid reflux and increased sweating. Most side effect decreases over time.