FDA OKs Lizard Spit Drug for Diabetes
Drug Derived From Lizard Spit
Byetta is derived from a chemical found in the saliva of the Gila monster, a venomous lizard. The drug is intended to be taken by injection before breakfast and dinner and will be available in June, according to the news release.
The medication works by stimulating insulin secretion in response to high blood sugars. Byetta also inhibits glucagon, a hormone that helps increase blood sugars.
Byetta will be available in both a 5-microgram dose and a 10-microgram dose prefilled pen-injector device.
According to the news release, the FDA also says Byetta is “approvable” as a stand-alone therapy for people with type 2 diabetes. That means that the drug is not currently cleared for use alone or as “monotherapy” for patients with type 2 diabetes. A six-month review is expected of any additional data for Byetta as a stand-alone drug, says the news release.
Lizard spit? Hey whatever works! As long as the lizard’s aren’t hurt from it, I’m game. Women take hormones made out of pregnant mare urine, why not T2’s taking something make from lizard spit?
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