Drug Overview
Byetta (exenatide; AstraZeneca) is a member of the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist class. GLP-1 agonists are incretin mimetics, mimicking the endogenous gut hormone GLP-1, which stimulates insulin-secreting beta cells in the pancreas. This triggers glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon secretion, and thereby decreases plasma glucose levels. The major advantage of this class is the associated weight loss, as obesity is a common co-morbidity among type 2 diabetes patients. GLP-1 agonists also delay gastric emptying, thus increasing satiety and suppressing appetite.
The drug was developed as part of a joint venture between AstraZeneca and Bristol-Myers Squibb. However, AstraZeneca has taken full ownership and marketing responsibilities after buying its partner’s share of the venture.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
4 PRODUCT PROFILES
4 Byetta : Diabetes type 2
LIST OF FIGURES
8 Figure 1: Byetta brand franchise for type 2 diabetes – SWOT analysis
9 Figure 2: Datamonitor Healthcare drug assessment of Byetta
10 Figure 3: Datamonitor Healthcare drug assessment scorecard for Byetta compared to Victoza
12 Figure 4: Byetta sales for type 2 diabetes across the US, Japan, and five major EU markets, by country, 2016–25
LIST OF TABLES
4 Table 1: Byetta drug profile
6 Table 2: Overview of pivotal trial data for Byetta
13 Table 3: Byetta sales for type 2 diabetes across the US, Japan, and five major EU markets, by country ($m), 2016–25