It’s not exactly a new diabetes medicine since it has been around for just a couple of years, nevertheless, it is one of the newest. It’s called, Byetta. And reports are it is a very good medicine. So what is Byetta? Well, hold on, Byetta is “lizard spit”! That’s right, the saliva of a Gila Monster. A Gila Monster is a colorful and rare venomous lizard that is found in the desert areas of the southwestern part of the U.S. and North Western part of Mexico. When the Gila Monster was studied, it was noted that this little guy could go for long periods of time without eating. It was also found that it produced a certain type of protein that slows down emptying of the stomach. In other words, when this guy eats, he’s full for a long time. Hhmm. Humans produce a similar protein called GLP-1. Ok then, bring on Byetta. One note however, Byetta should not replace insulin therapy.
This new diabetes medicine, Byetta, has been on the market for just a couple of years and here is the good news. To this point there has been no controversial allegations with regard to any life threatening side effects. The manufacturer has reported active sales and they are responding by developing a more advanced version that will be a long acting release formula, which will be called Byetta LAR. The benefits of Byetta include delayed stomach emptying, increased feeling of fullness and reduced glucagon release from the liver that causes lowering of the blood sugar. There is evidence that it may help pancreatic cells that produce insulin. Byetta has also been credited with a reduction of both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. It also promotes significant weight loss, which is also beneficial to those with diabetes and high blood pressure. As an overview of this new diabetes medicine, these effects can not only assist people with diabetes, but it can help in reducing cardiovascular risk factors associated with stroke and heart attack.
There are not many new medicines for diabetes so when one comes along it’s note worthy. In this case, this new diabetes medicine, Byetta, seems to be the real deal. Obviously, you need to see your doctor so he/she can prescribe Byetta for you if the doctor thinks it is right. As with any drug, especially a new drug, should you experience any side effects, contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor can provide you with all the information you need with regard to possible side effects.
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