Exenatide: From the Gila Monster to the Pharmacy

Exenatide offers a wide range of beneficial glucoregulatory effects, including enhancement of glucose-dependent insulin secretion, restoration of first-phase insulin response, suppression of inappropriately elevated glucagon secretion, slowing of gastric emptying, and reduction of food intake. These positive effects depend on the patient/s understanding of the proper administration technique and timing, the need for continued adherence, and what to do if adverse effects occur, all elements that can be conveyed by pharmacists in their counseling and education of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.