Key takeaways
Ozempic (semaglutide) and exenatide (Byetta, Bydureon BCise) are injectable medications used to treat Type 2 diabetes, but they have some key differences. Ozempic and exenatide are GLP-1 agonists that work to lower blood sugar by causing the pancreas to release more insulin, stop the liver from releasing more sugar, and slow down your digestion. Ozempic is injected once a week, while exenatide is injected either twice a day before meals (Byetta) or once a week (Bydureon BCise). Additionally, Ozempic can help lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death in adults with Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Both medications can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and rarely inflammation of the pancreas. Both medications are available by brand-name only.
