Description
Adlyxin (Lixisenatide) is an injectable medication used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults. It is part of a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which stimulate insulin production in the pancreas and slow gastric emptying. Adlyxin helps manage blood sugar levels, especially when used along with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C215H347N61O65S |
License |
US DailyMed, EU EMA |
Bioavailability |
approximately 2.17% |
Legal status |
Rx-only |
Chemical Name |
Lixisenatide |
Elimination half-life |
3-4 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
10 mcg, 20 mcg |
Pregnancy |
Not recommended for use during pregnancy |
Brands |
Adlyxin |
Protein binding |
approximately 55% |
PubChem CID |
90472060 |
MedlinePlus |
a617005 |
ChEBI |
85662 |
ATC code |
A10BJ03 |
DrugBank |
DB09265 |
KEGG |
D09729 |
Routes of administration |
Subcutaneous |
Directions
Typically, Adlyxin is administered as a 10 mcg injection once daily for the first 14 days. Then, the dosage is increased to 20 mcg once daily. The medication is recommended to be taken within one hour before the first meal of the day. It can be injected under the skin (subcutaneous) of the upper arm, thigh, or stomach area. Follow the dosage guidelines prescribed by your healthcare provider, as individual needs may vary.
Ingredients
The main active ingredient in Adlyxin is lixisenatide. In addition to lixisenatide, Adlyxin may contain other inactive ingredients that help with formulation and stability.
Contraindications
Avoid using Adlyxin if you have a history of severe allergic reactions to lixisenatide or any ingredients of the medication.
Cautions
- Before taking Adlyxin, it is important to inform your doctor about:
- Any medications you take, especially antidiabetic drugs, contraceptives, antibiotics, or other drugs that might interact with Adlyxin.
- Any medical conditions you have, including pancreatitis, gallbladder or kidney problems, or history of allergic reactions to medications.
- If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, Adlyxin may cause harm to the unborn baby.
- If you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, Adlyxin might pass into breast milk and cause harm to the baby.
- Frequent medical check-ups while taking Adlyxin may be necessary to monitor blood sugar levels and the state of your kidneys and gallbladder.
- If you're on medications such as sulfonylurea or insulin, using Adlyxin could increase the risk of experiencing hypoglycemia, characterized by symptoms like headache and dizziness. A healthcare provider may modify the dosages of your other medications to reduce the risk.
- If you already have kidney problems, Adlyxin's side effects like diarrhea or nausea may worsen your condition by causing dehydration.
- Some individuals have encountered gallbladder complications when using Adlyxin. Warning signs include abdominal pain and fever, which may warrant immediate medical intervention.
- The Adlyxin pen should never be used by multiple people, even with a needle change, to avoid cross-contamination.
- The formation of antibodies to lixisenatide, the active ingredient in Adlyxin, has been observed in some cases. This can affect the control of blood sugar levels, potentially requiring a switch to alternative diabetes treatments.
Side Effects
Although Adlyxin can be an effective treatment, there are some potential side effects that users should be aware of. The most common side effects of Adlyxin include gastrointestinal problems like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some people may also experience headache, dizziness, and hypoglycemia as a result of using Adlyxin.
Some side effects of Lixisenatide may go away during treatment as the body adjusts to the medicine. Healthcare professionals may be able to offer advice on preventing or reducing some of these side effects.
In some cases, severe side effects may occur, such as an allergic reaction, kidney failure, and or gallbladder problems. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience serious side effects such as hives, difficulty breathing, severe rash, rapid heartbeat, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
References:
- Adlyxin Prescribing Information. Bridgewater, NJ: Sanofi-Aventis; 2022.
- Lixisenatide Injection Drugs, Herbs and Supplements. Bethesda, MD: National Library of Medicine; 2017.
About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)
Dr. Sison graduated with honors from the University of Florida. He began his career in pharmacy counseling patients in a community setting and later served in hospitals and clinics. He has also worked in medication therapy management services. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 13813