Peptide library / Digestive & weight / Exenatide
Exenatide
The first GLP-1 receptor agonist, derived from a hormone found in Gila monster saliva.
Effects studied or claimed
What it is used or promoted for, and where each effect has actually been seen
- Lower blood sugar in type 2 diabetesFDA approved
- Modest weight loss in type 2 diabetesLarge trials
How it is thought to work
Exenatide is a synthetic version of exendin-4, which binds the GLP-1 receptor and resists the enzyme that breaks down natural GLP-1.
What the evidence shows
Early trials established that a GLP-1 receptor agonist could lower blood sugar with weight loss rather than gain. A trial of exenatide in Parkinson disease had encouraging early results, but a larger phase 3 study did not confirm a benefit.
Safety and unknowns
Nausea is the most common effect. Pancreatitis has been reported. The extended-release form carries a boxed warning on thyroid C-cell tumors.
Regulatory status
FDA-approved as Byetta in 2005, with the weekly Bydureon formulation approved later.
Regulatory status changes quickly. This entry was last reviewed on 27 October 2026. Confirm current status with the FDA before relying on it.
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General information, not medical advice. Do not buy or inject unregulated peptides.