In 2005, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA, approved Byetta for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Byetta works by lowering blood sugar levels. The drug's manufacturer recommends Byetta for individuals whose blood sugar remains too high even after taking other medications for diabetes. However, the drug quickly became popular for its off-label abilities to help people lose weight.
Negative Side Effects
Because of Byetta's purported weight-loss benefits, the drug has remained popular since its debut in 2005, despite being less convenient than similar medications available in pill form. You must refrigerate Byetta and administer the drug twice daily as an injection. There are also some serious side effects associated with this drug. According to the Mayo Clinic, the drug can cause pancreatitis, and in rare cases, can lead to death. Nausea is also a very common side effect of the drug.
Not a Diet Pill
This drug has not been tested for its weight-loss effects on non-diabetics. As a result, many doctors strongly recommend that people without diabetes who are simply looking for a diet pill do not use Byetta. Some doctors, however, do prescribe Byetta to people without diabetes for use as an aid in losing weight. Most insurers, however, will not cover this off-label use of the drug since the FDA has not approved this drug for use in non-diabetics.
Continuing Benefits
While you should not use Byetta solely as a weight-loss aid, the weight loss effects of the drug do not seem to drop off after the body's initial adjustment. You may experience nausea the first week that you take the drug, but the nausea effects diminish in most people over time. According to a 2006 report in "The New York Times," many patients continue to experience steady weight loss after many months of treatment. In addition, most patients seem to keep the weight off as long as they continue the treatment.
Not Skin-Deep
Some people taking Byetta report experiencing hunger suppression more than significant amounts of weight loss. In addition, these people report that they can feel full from less food. The drug's benefits as a weight loss aid have significant importance for diabetics. While type 2 diabetes is often linked to obesity, many diabetes drugs lead to additional weight gain. Over time, this can make the diabetes disease worse. Byetta's long-term ability to suppress appetite can help diabetics control their disease.
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