Manufacturer: Sanofi Aventis
Pharmaceutical name: Lixisenatide
Pack: 1 prefilled pen injection (3 ml (10 mcg))
Lyxumia is intended for individuals with type 2 diabetes whose blood sugar levels remain uncontrolled despite taking oral antidiabetic medications, such as metformin, a sulphonylurea (like gliclazide), or a glitazone (like pioglitazone), and/or long-acting insulin. It is used as an additional treatment alongside the existing medication. Lyxumia contains the active ingredient Lixisenatide, which belongs to a class of drugs known as incretin mimetics. It is utilized to assist in regulating blood sugar in those with type 2 or non-insulin dependent diabetes.
Lixisenatide functions by imitating the effects of a hormone known as glucagon-like peptide-1, or GLP-1. This hormone is naturally produced by the body in response to the intake of food.
GLP-1 has four primary functions that aid in blood glucose regulation. First, it encourages the pancreas to release insulin when blood glucose levels rise. (Insulin is the primary hormone responsible for maintaining blood sugar levels. It prompts body cells to extract sugar from the blood.) Additionally, GLP-1 decreases glucagon production. (Glucagon is a hormone that typically increases glucose generation from the liver.)
GLP-1 also slows the pace at which food exits the stomach and enters the intestines, which in turn hinders the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream. Lastly, it influences the brain to induce a sensation of fullness, which helps to decrease further food consumption. By imitating GLP-1's actions, lixisenatide aids in managing blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Lyxumia is administered via a subcutaneous injection (under the skin) once daily, typically in the upper arm, abdomen, or thigh. It should be injected within one hour before the first or last meal of the day. The medication is available in a solution, usually started at a dosage of 10 micrograms once daily, which is then increased to 20 micrograms once daily after a period of 14 days.
Do not administer two injections on the same day. If you miss your regular injection, take it within the hour before your upcoming meal.
Possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, headache, and diarrhoea.