Byetta, also known as exenatide, is an incretin mimetic medication that is prescribed to adults with Type 2 diabetes. It works by stimulating the pancreas to secrete insulin when blood sugars are high. Byetta comes in a pre-filled pen that patients use to inject the medication.

Byetta Linked to Pancreatitis and Kidney Failure

Since the drug entered the market in 2005, over seven million prescriptions for Byetta have been filled. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported in 2007 that 30 Byetta users had developed acute pancreatitis, or the sudden inflammation of the pancreas. Acute pancreatitis is often a life-threatening condition.

In August 2008, the FDA reported that six patients that had taken Byetta had developed hemorrhagic pancreatitis (characterized by the inflammation of the pancreas with bleeding) or necrotizing pancreatitis (which is when an inflamed pancreas destroys itself). All six were hospitalized, with two of the patients eventually dying from the pancreatitis. The FDA subsequently advised manufacturers of Byetta, Amylin Pharmaceuticals, to strengthen their warning labels.

In 2009, the FDA issued a public alert that patients who used Byetta may be at an increased risk for altered kidney function and kidney failure. From the time Byetta entered the market in 2005 to 2008, there were 78 reported incidents of Byetta-induced kidney problems. Of those 78 reported, 62 patients also experienced renal failure.

Some other Byetta side effects associated with this drug include:

• Pain in the back or stomach
• Swelling of the face or appendages
• Changes in urinary frequency
• Changes in urine color
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting

North Carolina Byetta Lawsuit

If you or a loved one has suffered from pancreatitis or kidney failure after taking Byetta, you may be able to file a Byetta lawsuit. Those injured from this dangerous drug may be eligible to receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and mental anguish. Our North Carolina dangerous drug lawyers at Lewis & Keller are experienced in handling all types of pharmaceutical injury claims, including Byetta lawsuits. For more information on Byetta lawsuits, or to schedule a free and confidential case evaluation with one of Byetta attorneys, fill out our online contact form for immediate assistance.

It is likely that we will associate another law firm more experienced in defective drug and product liability claims to assist us in prosecuting your claim, all at no additional cost to you.