Byetta is a relatively new diabetic medication that is in the GLP-1 agonist drug class. This drug has proven beneficial in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus as GLP is a natural substance in the body that aids in digestion. Byetta assists in lowering blood glucose values in combination with a healthy diet and exercise. New research is showing potential for the use of Byetta for weight-loss, even in non-diabetic patients.
Carbohydrate Absorption
Carbohydrates are one of the most vital foods to limit for diabetics or non-diabetics alike to prevent weight gain. Carbohydrates are broken down into sugars that are either used for energy or stored in fat cells, often causing weight gain. Current studies are underway, but it is believed that Byetta may reduce the amount of carbohydrates that are absorbed from food, thus decreasing the amount of sugars present in the blood and body tissues.
Slowed Gastric Emptying
Research companies have just started examining Byetta as a weight loss drug for non-diabetics. It is believed that Byetta also slows gastric emptying, according to ClinicalTrials.gov. A person who is experiencing slowed gastric emptying may feel full quicker, and therefore eat less. This prevents blood sugar spikes, insulin production that leads to weight gain even in non-diabetic patients, and increases fat storage in the body.
Increased Satiety
Many nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine rather than the stomach. Decreased carbohydrate absorption and delayed gastric emptying together prompt food to remain in the stomach longer, according to MayoClinic.com. This effect may make people feel fuller longer as well, thus reducing the amount of food that they normally intake. People on Byetta often eat less, which can lead to weight loss and improvements in fasting as well as pre- and post-meal blood sugars.
Byetta Side Effects
Byetta is a prescription medication and should only be taken under the direct supervision of a physician. Byetta has been known to cause acute and necrotizing pancreatitis, according to Drugs.com. Many people may experience nausea with or without vomiting as well as gastrointestinal upset when first starting this medication. If these symptoms do not improve with time or worsen, a physician may need to adjust the dosage of Byetta or prescribe other drugs.
