Synthetic exendin-4 (Gila monster venom peptide) that activates GLP-1 receptors on pancreatic beta cells, enhancing glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon, slowing gastric emptying, and promoting satiety. Only stimulates insulin when glucose is elevated.
At a glance
Class
GLP-1 Receptor Agonist (Incretin Mimetic)
Storage
Refrigerate 2–8°C; pen in use can be at room temperature up to 30 days
Dosing
Off-label investigational use for canine diabetes and insulinoma (paradoxically
Investigational for feline diabetes — may promote beta cell regeneration and dia
Safety
Blood glucose curvesFructosamineBody weightGI toleranceLipase (pancreatitis screening)
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Exenatide?
Exenatide is a glp-1 receptor agonist (incretin mimetic) used in pets. Synthetic exendin-4 (Gila monster venom peptide) that activates GLP-1 receptors on pancreatic beta cells, enhancing glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon, slowing gastric emptying, and promoting satiety. Only stimulates insulin when glucose is elevated.
›What is Exenatide used for in pets?
Exenatide is used in veterinary medicine for: Off-label investigational use for canine diabetes and insulinoma (paradoxically ; Investigational for feline diabetes — may promote beta cell regeneration and dia.
›What is the Exenatide dose for dogs?
For dogs, Exenatide is typically dosed as follows — Off-label investigational use for canine diabetes and insulinoma (paradoxically : 0.2–1 mcg/kg SQ q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Exenatide dose for cats?
For cats, Exenatide is typically dosed as follows — Investigational for feline diabetes — may promote beta cell regeneration and dia: 0.2 mcg/kg SQ q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Exenatide need a prescription?
Yes. Exenatide is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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