Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is Byetta. It helps keep blood sugar at normal levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. Byetta may have other uses, too. 

You should inject Byetta 0 to 60 minutes BEFORE your morning and evening meals, unless your doctor says otherwise. If you miss a dose, do not take it at all. Instead, take your next dose when it is due.  

Before giving a dose at home, you should demonstrate an injection to your health care provider. If you still have questions, your doctor or pharmacist can help. Remember to never share your pen or needles. 

At first, many patients have nausea, but this should improve soon. Other common effects include a mild headache and either diarrhea or constipation. Low blood sugar could also happen. This could affect your concentration and reaction time. You should be aware of this before doing activities that require you to be alert. You may need emergency help for blood sugar that is very low or high. Make sure you talk to your doctor about checking your blood sugar and when to get help. 

Rare but serious side effects could occur with Byetta and similar medicines. These include allergic reactions, and problems with your pancreas, kidneys, thyroid, or injection site. It is important to read the Medication Guide for more information. To keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will follow you closely. 

You should always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines. 

You should keep unused Byetta pens in the refrigerator. You can keep the pen you are using at room temperature. Once you use a pen, you must throw it away after 30 days. 

For best results with Byetta, follow  your doctor's advice for diet, exercise, and drinking ample amounts of fluid.