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Bydureon
Bydureon (exenatide) prescription available online
Bydureon is an extended-release injectable type II diabetes medication that helps control blood sugar levels. Get a new prescription or refill of Bydureon from a board-certified doctor online.*
Book an appointment
Stay ahead of blood sugar spikes
Available as an injectable suspension
Works in combination with diet and exercise
*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card.
About Bydureon
Bydureon is an extended-release injectable diabetes medication that helps control blood sugar. Extended-release exenatide helps the pancreas produce insulin more efficiently.
Bydureon treats type 2 diabetes mellitus in combination with diet and exercise. Bydureon is available only by prescription. It is in a generic formulation under different brand names, including extended-release exenatide.
Bydureon may be prescribed as an injectable suspension. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.
If you're prescribed Bydureon, complete the entire course of the diabetes medication unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the diabetes medication may not fully treat your type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Bydureon uses
There is one FDA-approved use for Bydureon, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online medical professional may prescribe it for the following reasons.
It’s also possible that your healthcare provider may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. Ask your online doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about why a medication is prescribed.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Bydureon is FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus in combination with diet and exercise. Bydureon should not be prescribed with immediate-release exenatide.
Extended-release exenatide is not an effective treatment for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Bydureon side effects
The side effects associated with taking Bydureon are typically mild. Most Bydureon side effects are associated with gastrointestinal adverse reactions. Bydureon has some common side effects. They may include:
Nausea, upset stomach, and problems digesting food
Mild injection site reactions, such as itching
Headache
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Serious injection site reactions, such as severe pain or itching
Ongoing or severe stomach problems, such as abdominal pain
Easy bruising, serious bleeding, or red spots underneath your skin
Severe allergic reaction
Signs of pancreas or gallbladder problems
Tell your healthcare provider if you notice any of these side effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. Bydureon may be used to improve blood glucose concentrations in pediatric patients over the age of 10.
How to take Bydureon
Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Bydureon prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
Bydureon can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. Bydureon is typically injected once weekly. You may administer the injection with or without food at any time of day.
Do not reuse needles or syringes, and avoid injecting extended-release exenatide into the same place two times in a row. If you change your weekly dosing day, choose a day that is at least three days past your last dose.
What to avoid while taking Bydureon
Bydureon has 343 drug interactions. Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter medicines.
Possible drug interactions with Bydureon include:
Oral diabetes medication
Warfarin
Pain medication
Drinking alcohol can increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). Avoid drinking alcohol while taking extended-release exenatide.
Medication alternatives to Bydureon
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment, they may suggest another diabetes medication in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Bydureon prescription FAQs
How much does Bydureon cost?
Depending on your pharmacy, Bydureon injectable suspension costs around $806 for four 2 mg injections without insurance. Fortunately, generic brands like extended-release exenatide offer an affordable alternative.
How can I refill my Bydureon prescription?
To refill your Bydureon prescription, book a virtual appointment with one of our top rated board-certified doctors. After reviewing your symptoms and medical history, your doctor can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy.
How long can you leave Bydureon out of the refrigerator?
If needed, you can store Bydureon outside of the refrigerator for up to four weeks.
When is the best time to take Bydureon?
Bydureon BCise may be taken any time of the day, with or without food, to improve blood sugar control.
Why is Bydureon stored flat?
Bydureon BCise should be stored flat to prevent air bubbles from forming in the pen.
Who should not take Bydureon?
Avoid taking Bydureon if you have certain medical conditions, such as:
A personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2
Low blood platelet count
Kidney problems or kidney disease
Acute pancreatitis
Gallbladder problems
Chronic renal failure
Bydureon has caused thyroid tumors in animal studies. It is not known if Bydureon BCise causes an increased risk of thyroid cancer in humans. Bydureon may also lead to an increased risk of drug-induced thrombocytopenia.
What happens if I miss a dose of Bydureon?
If you missed a dose of Bydureon, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip the missed dose if your next dose is due in less than three days. Avoid taking two doses at the same time.
What happens if I take too much Bydureon?
If you've taken too much Bydureon, call your healthcare provider immediately or contact your local poison control center.
3 simple steps to request your Bydureon prescription today
Step 1
Book a Bydureon prescription request appointment.
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your Bydureon prescription.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
Pick up your Bydureon prescription.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Bydureon prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To get a new or refill on your Bydureon prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
Copay
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
- We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
$129
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Bydureon prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Food and Drug Administration. Bydureon (exenatide extended release). Accessed on October 15, 2022. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/022200s026lbl.pdf
Mayo Clinic. Exenatide (Subcutaneous Route). Accessed on October 15, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/exenatide-subcutaneous-route/before-using/drg-20068401?p=1
MedlinePlus. Exenatide Injection. Accessed on October 15, 2022. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a605034.html
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.