The Injectable Device Gives Metered Doses Is Known As Byetta Pen
The Byetta pen is used to treat type 2 diabetes. An injectable medication, it helps to control blood glucose levels in many patients; however, it has also been linked to painful adverse effects, including pancreatitis. It is typically given as an injection under the skin. A doctor or pharmacist can provide specific instructions as to how and where to inject the medicine (usually in the upper thigh, stomach, or upper arm). There are also a number of precautions that patients should keep in mind after receiving a prescription for an exenatide injection: • Use it exactly as prescribed, following the directions on the label
• Do not use in larger amounts or for a longer time period than recommended
• Do not administer immediately after eating a meal
• Never share the pen with another person
• Check your blood sugar levels regularly
• Use for no more than 30 days, and then discard
• Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine
• Inform your doctor of all other drugs that you are using, including over-the-counter vitamins or minerals. You should also seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the symptoms of pancreatitis after using a Byetta pen. These include: • Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fast heart rate
• Severe pain in upper abdomen that may spread to the back The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began requiring warnings on the label after reporting in 2007 at least 30 cases of this serious disorder related to the medicine. There were also reports of related complications such as dehydration, kidney failure, and intestinal obstruction. Other associated side effects include heartburn, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and feeling jittery. Pancreatitis can be a very serious illness that varies in severity, but can require hospitalization for treatment, including pain management and fluid and electrolyte stabilization. Surgery or other invasive measures may even be necessary. Additional complications can also occur, such as the development of pseudocysts that can become infected and hemorrhage. The illness usually presents with severe upper abdominal pain that radiates through the back, typically coupled with nausea and vomiting. It may or may not be associated with internal bleeding, high or low blood pressure, or elevated heart and respiratory rates. Some non-diabetics have also taken this medicine for off-label uses, including as a diet drug. Though for those taking Byetta, weight loss can occur, it has not been extensively studied for this purpose and its safety for those who do not have blood sugar problems has not been validated. Patients should always consult with a doctor before discontinuing any medication. However, if you were hospitalized after using a Byetta pen, you may want to seek legal advice as well. There are already lawsuits pending against the manufacturers, claiming that they failed to adequately warn consumers about the potential risks, and seeking compensation for the costs associated with healthcare, lost wages, and general pain and suffering. The families of victims who tragically died may also want to consider pursuing wrongful death suits on behalf of their loved ones.
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