Exenatide vs. Metformin Hydrochloride
Compare Exenatide and Metformin Hydrochloride: mechanism of action, indications, side effects, cost, and which may be right for you.
Drug A
Exenatide
Exenatide
GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
RxDrug B
Metformin Hydrochloride
Metformin Hydrochloride
Biguanides
RxQuick Comparison
| Category | Exenatide | Metformin Hydrochloride |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | GLP-1 Receptor Agonists | Biguanides |
| Rx Status | Rx | Rx |
| Generic Available | No | No |
| Typical Cost | $600–$1,000/month | $4-$25/month |
Exenatide Overview
Exenatide (brand name: Exenatide) is a medication in the GLP-1 receptor agonist class, used to help adults with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels. It works by mimicking a natural hormone in your body that helps release insulin when your blood sugar is high, thereby improving glycemic control when used with diet and exercise.
Full Exenatide guide →Metformin Hydrochloride Overview
Metformin hydrochloride is the salt form of metformin (Glucophage), the first-line oral medication for type 2 diabetes. See the metformin monograph for complete prescribing information.
Full Metformin Hydrochloride guide →How Each Drug Works
Exenatide
Incretins, such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), enhance glucose-dependent insulin secretion and exhibit other antihyperglycemic actions following their release into the circulation from the gut. Exenatide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion by the pancreatic beta-cell, suppresses inappropriately elevated glucagon secretion, and slows gastric emptying. The amino acid sequence of exenatide partially overlaps that of human GLP-1…
Metformin Hydrochloride
Metformin is an antihyperglycemic agent which improves glucose tolerance in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, lowering both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose, and improves insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. With metformin therapy, insulin secretion remains unchanged while fasting insulin levels and day-long plasma insulin respons…
Approved Uses (Indications)
Exenatide
Exenatide injection is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Exenatide injection is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Limitations of Use Co-administration with other exenatide-containing products is not recommended. Limitations of Use Exenatide injection contains exenatide. Co-administration with other exenatide-containing products is not recommended…
Metformin Hydrochloride
Metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets are indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets are a biguanide indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Side Effects
Exenatide
Metformin Hydrochloride
Cost Comparison
Exenatide
$600–$1,000/month
Since Exenatide is brand-only, look for manufacturer patient assistance programs or coupons directly from the drug's maker. Discount cards may offer some savings, but manufacturer programs are often more significant for brand-name medications.
Metformin Hydrochloride
$4-$25/month
As a widely available generic, Metformin Hydrochloride is very affordable. Patients can often find the lowest prices using discount cards like GoodRx or through pharmacy savings programs.
Drug Interaction: Minor
When exenatide is co-administered with metformin, there is a potential for an additive effect on blood glucose lowering, which could increase the risk of hypoglycemia, although this is generally low with metformin alone. Additionally, exenatide can slow gastric emptying, which may affect the absorption rate of metformin, but typically not its overall bioavailability.
Mechanism: Exenatide is an incretin mimetic that stimulates insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner and suppresses glucagon, while metformin reduces hepatic glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity. Their combined glucose-lowering effects are additive. Exenatide's effect on gastric emptying can delay the absorption of orally administered drugs.
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Medical Disclaimer
The information on RxGuide is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.