Can Bydureon Replace Insulin?

Bydureon, generically known as Exenatide Extended-release Injectable Suspension, is used to lower blood sugar levels. It is generally not a substitute for insulin, and its usage should be determined by a medical doctor.

If insulin is effective in controlling blood sugar levels, it is not recommended to switch to Bydureon. Bydureon is a short-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist that is suitable for improving glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. It is indicated for patients who have inadequate glycemic control with metformin, sulfonylureas, or a combination of these agents. Bydureon is a relatively new drug, and its long-term safety and effectiveness have yet to be fully established. Therefore, it is generally not a substitute for insulin. Whether Bydureon is appropriate for a patient should be determined by a professional endocrinologist.

1. Early Use is Better Than Late Use: Early administration of insulin can correct the deficiency of insulin in the body, reduce the toxic effects of high blood sugar on pancreatic islet cells, improve the secretion of endogenous insulin, increase insulin sensitivity, allow damaged pancreatic islet cells to rest, restore residual pancreatic function, and delay the progression of the disease. In other words, as long as blood sugar levels are normalized as soon as possible, pancreatic islet cell function can be restored.

2. Combination Use is Better Than Single Use: Combination therapy can reduce the dosage of insulin, improve efficacy, and reduce side effects. Combinations can include insulin with oral medications, such as the use of long-acting insulin to control basal blood sugar combined with oral medications to control postprandial hyperglycemia. This approach can help achieve glycemic targets at all times and is suitable for diabetic patients who frequently travel. Another option is the combination of long-acting and rapid-acting insulins to treat patients with hyperglycemia at all times.

3. Prevention is Better Than Treatment: Insulin not only lowers blood sugar levels but also has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-atherosclerotic effects. However, these benefits can only be achieved if insulin is used before complications occur. Based on this viewpoint, insulin should be used early, especially in cases of acute infectious complications, where insulin can control the progression of the disease, shorten the duration of illness, and reduce discomfort.