What is Rybelsus®?
Rybelsus is an oral medication manufactured by Novo Nordisk used to help manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is the first and only GLP-1 receptor agonist available in pill form, making it an innovative option for people who prefer not to use injections. Like other GLP-1 medications (such as Ozempic and Wegovy), Rybelsus contains Semaglutide, which helps control blood sugar and can assist with weight loss in some individuals. While it’s primarily approved for diabetes management, Rybelsus is increasingly used off-label for weight loss in individuals with obesity.
Benefits of Rybelsus®
Rybelsus (Semaglutide) is an oral semaglutide, a prescription medication primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes. Although it is not an FDA-approved weight loss medicine, clinical studies have shown that it can help with weight loss. A clinical trial conducted for 26 weeks has shown that people taking Rybelsus 7 mg have lost 2.3 kg and people taking Rybelsus 14 mg have lost 3.7 kg of their total body weight.
Patients with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease have shown Rybelsus to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events like heart attack or stroke, making it a comprehensive treatment for both diabetes and heart health.
How does Rybelsus® work?
Rybelsus contains Semaglutide, which mimics the effects of a natural hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). GLP-1 is produced in the gut after eating and plays a role in regulating appetite, blood sugar, and insulin production.
Here’s how Rybelsus works:
Increases Insulin Production: It helps the pancreas release more insulin when blood sugar levels are high, which helps to lower blood sugar.
Reduces Glucagon: It lowers the production of glucagon, a hormone that tells the liver to release stored sugar into the bloodstream, thereby reducing blood sugar levels.
Slows Digestion: By slowing down digestion, Rybelsus helps you feel full longer, which can aid in weight loss and prevent overeating.
Semaglutide may not work for everyone, and it is important to consult with your healthcare provider to assess which medication is best suited for you. Aayu Well Healthcare ensures thorough assessment and evaluation to build a plan tailored to your needs.
How to use it
Rybelsus should be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Rybelsus is taken orally once a day, at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything other than plain water. It’s crucial to follow the instructions for proper absorption:
Take the tablet on an empty stomach.
Swallow the tablet whole with no more than 4 ounces of water.
Wait 30 minutes before consuming food, drinks, or other medications.
Taking it incorrectly can affect how well your body absorbs the medication. Store Rybelsus in the original package at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Dosing
- Rybelsus comes in three dosages: 3 mg, 7 mg, and 14 mg. Typically, treatment starts with the 3 mg dose for the first month to allow your body to adjust to the medication. After 30 days, your doctor may increase your dose to 7 mg and, if needed, to 14 mg based on your blood sugar levels and how your body responds.
- For diabetes management, the higher doses tend to provide better blood sugar control, but your healthcare provider will determine the best dose for your needs.
Side effects
- Like any medication, Rybelsus may cause side effects. The most common side effects include nausea (this is the most common side effect and is more prevalent when starting the medication or increasing the dose), vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and loss of appetite.
- These gastrointestinal side effects typically subside as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.
- Some individuals may experience serious side effects. It is rare but may include:
- Pancreatitis: severe and persistent abdominal pain that radiates to the back could be a sign of inflammation of the pancreas.
- Kidney issues: Dehydration from nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea can lead to kidney problems.
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): Especially when used with other diabetes medications like insulin or sulfonylureas.
- If you experience any of these more severe symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Black Box Warning
- Rybelsus carries a black box warning because animal studies have shown that Semaglutide can increase the risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. Be sure to contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms: You have a painless lump in your neck (the lump may grow gradually), a change in your voice (hoarseness), or have difficulty swallowing.
- As a precaution, the FDA warns patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should avoid using Rybelsus (Semaglutide).
Precautions
- Before you start Rybelsus (Semaglutide), inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of pancreatitis, a history of thyroid cancer, kidney disease, liver problems, or gastrointestinal issues.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not take Rybelsus (Semaglutide) because it is not known if it will harm your unborn baby or pass into your breast milk
- Rybelsus (Semaglutide) is not for insulin-dependent diabetics (type 1 diabetes). When Rybelsus (Semaglutide) is taken with insulin and the insulin dose is reduced too quickly, it can lead to high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), which increases the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Interactions
- Rybelsus can interact with certain medications and substances, which may affect how it works. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications and supplements you are taking. Some common interactions include:
- Insulin or Sulfonylureas: Combining these with Rybelsus can increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
- Birth Control Pills: Since Rybelsus can affect the absorption of oral contraceptives, consult your provider about alternative methods.
- Other GLP-1 Agonists: Do not combine Rybelsus with other GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic, Wegovy, Liraglutide, or Dulaglutide.
