Bydureon Discontinued: Best Alternatives
Bydureon (exenatide extended-release) was discontinued by AstraZeneca in October 2025. If you were taking Bydureon for type 2 diabetes, this guide covers the best alternatives and how to switch safely with your healthcare provider.
Action Required: Contact Your GP or Diabetes Team
If you haven't already switched from Bydureon, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Do not stop your diabetes medication without medical guidance. Several effective alternatives are available on the NHS.
What Happened to Bydureon?
AstraZeneca announced the global discontinuation of Bydureon (exenatide extended-release) with the final UK supply ending in October 2025. This affects both the Bydureon pen (BCise) and older formulations.
Bydureon was one of the first weekly GLP-1 medications and has been used to treat type 2 diabetes since 2011. However, it has been overtaken by newer medications that offer better blood sugar control and weight loss with similar or improved side effect profiles.
Key Facts About the Discontinuation
- • Bydureon BCise and Bydureon weekly discontinued globally
- • Final UK supply depleted October 2025
- • Not a safety recall - Bydureon remains safe to use until expiry
- • Multiple effective alternatives available on the NHS
- • Most patients successfully switched to other GLP-1s
Best Alternatives to Bydureon
Several GLP-1 medications can replace Bydureon. Your doctor will recommend the most suitable option based on your individual needs:
Doses Available
0.25mg, 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg
HbA1c Reduction
1.5-1.8%
Typical Weight Loss
4-6kg
NHS Available
Yes
Best for: Most Bydureon patients - similar dosing, better efficacy
Note: May have stronger GI side effects initially
Doses Available
2.5mg to 15mg
HbA1c Reduction
2.0-2.3%
Typical Weight Loss
6-12kg
NHS Available
Yes
Best for: Patients wanting maximum weight loss alongside diabetes control
Note: Dual-agonist, may need slower titration
Doses Available
0.75mg, 1.5mg, 3mg, 4.5mg
HbA1c Reduction
1.3-1.6%
Typical Weight Loss
2-4kg
NHS Available
Yes
Best for: Patients prioritising simplicity with easy-to-use pen
Note: Slightly less weight loss than semaglutide
Doses Available
0.6mg, 1.2mg, 1.8mg
HbA1c Reduction
1.1-1.5%
Typical Weight Loss
2-3kg
NHS Available
Yes
Best for: Patients who prefer daily injections or cannot tolerate weekly
Note: Daily dosing may be less convenient
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How to Switch from Bydureon
Follow these steps to safely transition to a new GLP-1 medication:
Contact Your Healthcare Provider
Book an appointment with your GP, diabetes nurse, or specialist. If you haven't heard from your surgery about the switch, contact them proactively. Many practices have been reaching out to affected patients.
Discuss Your Options
Your prescriber will review your current diabetes control, other medications, and any preferences you have. Be prepared to discuss: how well Bydureon controlled your blood sugar, any side effects you experienced, and whether weight loss is a goal.
Plan the Transition
Most patients can switch directly from their last Bydureon dose to the new medication. For example, take your new medication on the day your next Bydureon dose would have been due. Your prescriber will confirm the exact timing.
Start Your New Medication
Begin with the starting dose recommended by your prescriber. Even though you were on a GLP-1, most people still need to start low to minimise side effects. Dose increases will follow the standard titration schedule.
Monitor and Follow Up
Keep track of your blood sugar levels during the transition. Report any significant changes or concerns to your healthcare team. You'll likely have a follow-up appointment to check your HbA1c after 3 months on the new medication.
What to Expect When Switching
- Better blood sugar control with newer medications
- Often greater weight loss than Bydureon provided
- Easier-to-use injection pens
- Cardiovascular benefits (especially semaglutide)
- Temporary GI side effects during transition
- Need to restart dose titration from low dose
- Blood sugars may fluctuate during adjustment
- Learning to use a different injection device
Reassurance: Most patients who switch from Bydureon adapt well to their new medication within 4-8 weeks. Many report being more satisfied with their new medication due to better efficacy and modern injection devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Guides
References & Sources
- AstraZeneca. Bydureon discontinuation communication, 2025.
- NICE Clinical Guidelines: Type 2 diabetes in adults: management (NG28).
- MHRA. Drug Safety Update: Switching GLP-1 receptor agonists guidance.
- Diabetes UK. Managing medication changes: patient guidance.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Do not change or stop your diabetes medication without consulting your healthcare provider. Your doctor or diabetes specialist will help you find the most suitable alternative to Bydureon based on your individual circumstances.
Last updated: December 2025
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Get notified about availability changes, price updates, and new research. Plus receive our free UK medication guide when it launches.