Byetta and the DVLA

ianjd20 said:

I am just about to start on Byetta injections and also continue to take Metformin to accompany this. The nurse said I will need to inform the DVLA and my car insurance company of this. I have read the leaflet and this says that non-insulin injections do not have to be notified unless accompanied by other oral medicine. It doesn't mention Metformin but does anyone know whether I have to notify the DVLA? I have never had any problems with my Type2 - no hypo's at all. The only reason for starting Byetta is that my BG levels seem to be creeping up.

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Hi ian,

You have read the document as I have. Metformin is not one of the meds listed.
http://www.dft.gov.uk/dvla/medical/ataglance.aspx

I hope you are not having problems with test strips because it does say that on Byetta you are advised to test your blood sugar regularly and at times relevant to driving. You must also be under regular medical reviews.

Quote the DVLA if you are having difficulty in getting test strips.

Hi ian,

The forum is usually quiet at weekends.

Try posting about Byetta and driving and asking other users if their driving has been affected. You will probably get some answers in the week.

There is a long thread about Byetta on the diabetes medication and drugs board for you to read.

If you are going to be using Byetta then you do need to tell the DVLA as Byetta can for some cause a rather nasty hypo..

It is likely that the DVLA, will just write back a nice thank you letter, and no changes to your licence necessary but please keep us informed if your medical status changes etc etc..

Yes you do need to inform your insurance company as well, it shouldn't effect your insurance cover at all.. But if you have an accident your insurance company not being made aware of this can void your cover and refuse to pay out!

As to driving, you need to take the same precautions as an insulin user, test before driving, keep hypo kit near to hand etc..

As I said, it's unlikely for either the DVLA or your insurance company to do anything more than note it down, but this will cover your back...

Car insurers yes but not DVLA. I checked when I was taking Victoza a few weeks ago. If you were taking a sulfonylurea such as gliclazide with it then DVLA would want to know.

Ali