Exenatide Protocol Guide
Exenatide is a synthetic version of exendin-4, a peptide originally isolated from Gila monster venom. It was the first GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for clinical use. It stimulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, slows gastric emptying, and promotes satiety.
Protocol Overview
- Compound
- Exenatide (Byetta - First-in-Class GLP-1 Mimetic)
- Category
- GLP-1 Receptor Agonist
- Vial Size
- 5mg (5,000mcg)
- Reconstitution
- 2mL bacteriostatic water (2.5mg/mL)
- Route
- Subcutaneous injection
- Frequency
- Twice daily (Byetta protocol)
Reconstitution Instructions
Using 2mL of bacteriostatic water results in a concentration of 2.5mg/mL. Always use sterile techniques.
Materials Needed
- 5mg Exenatide 5mg vial (lyophilized powder)
- 2mL bacteriostatic water (sterile, preserved with 0.9% benzyl alcohol)
- Sterile syringe and needle (18-22 gauge for drawing)
- Alcohol swabs
- Clean workspace
Step-by-Step Process
- Preparation: Allow the Exenatide 5mg vial and bacteriostatic water to reach room temperature. Wipe the rubber stoppers of both vials with an alcohol swab.
- Draw the Water: Using a sterile syringe, draw up exactly 2mL of bacteriostatic water. Expel any air bubbles.
- Inject into Vial: Insert the needle through the rubber stopper at a slight angle, aiming toward the glass wall. Slowly inject the water down the side of the vial to avoid foaming.
- Mix Gently: Remove the needle. Gently swirl or roll the vial between your hands. Do not shake vigorously.
- Check for Clarity: The solution should be clear once fully reconstituted. Do not use if cloudy.
Administration Guidelines
- Administer subcutaneously twice daily within 60 minutes before morning and evening meals
- Do not administer after meals
- Start at 5mcg twice daily for at least one month before considering increase to 10mcg
- Rotate injection sites between abdomen, thigh, and upper arm
- Store reconstituted peptide refrigerated at 36-46F (2-8C)
- Use reconstituted solution within 30 days
- Never freeze reconstituted peptides
- Document administration times and observations
Storage Requirements
| State | Storage Conditions |
|---|---|
| Lyophilized (powder) | Room temperature or refrigerated, protect from light |
| Reconstituted | Refrigerated 36-46F (2-8C), use within 30 days |
Related Tools & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
See the fact-checked Verified Dosing shown at the top of this page (verified against the FDA label / published trials); always confirm with a licensed provider.
Using 2mL of bacteriostatic water results in a concentration of 2.5mg/mL. Always use sterile techniques.
Lyophilized (powder): Room temperature or refrigerated, protect from light. Reconstituted: Refrigerated 36-46F (2-8C), use within 30 days.