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Canadian Med Center

How to Take Rybelsus: Dosing Directions

Wednesday 17 April 2024
Rybelsus
5 minute(s) read
By Kiran Altaf

Table of Contents

I. Rybelsus Dosages

II. How to Take Rybelsus

III. Rybelsus Overdose

IV. Missing a Rybelsus Dose

V. Conclusion

Rybelsus offers a new oral treatment option for managing type 2 diabetes. By taking Rybelsus in tablet form, patients can avoid injections while still receiving the benefits of a semaglutide. [1]

While this tablet formulation offers advantages, it's still important to take Rybelsus properly. This article will cover FDA-recommended Rybelsus dosages, proper administration, and guidance for special situations like missed or extra doses.

Rybelsus Dosages

Rybelsus is an oral tablet that comes in three different strengths: 3 mg, 7 mg, and 14 mg. [1]

When beginning treatment with Rybelsus, your doctor will have you start at a low dose and gradually increase it over time. This approach allows your body to get used to the new medication. [1]

We’ve included the FDA-suggested dosage increases below. However, your doctor will ultimately decide your dosage schedule based on your symptoms and medical history. Always follow your doctor’s instructions for medication dosages.

  • Month 1: Initially, your doctor will prescribe 3 mg once daily for 30 days. While this introductory dose helps your body acclimate to Rybelsus, it may not be strong enough to fully control blood sugar.
  • Month 2: Your doctor will increase your dosage to 7 mg once daily. For many people, this dose provides improved blood sugar control. However, some may need a higher dose to reach their target glucose levels.
  • Month 3: At this point, if the 7 mg dose does not provide adequate glycemic control, your doctor will increase your dosage to a maximum of 14 mg once daily. [1]

By starting low and gradually increasing the strength over time, your doctor can monitor your symptoms while finding the right maintenance dose of Rybelsus for your body. Be sure to follow their guidance closely when beginning treatment with this medication.

How to Take Rybelsus

a woman taking medication tablets

Rybelsus comes as oral tablets that you swallow once per day. It's important to take Rybelsus properly so that it can work effectively to lower your blood sugar. [1]

To get the most from your medication, follow these guidelines:

  • Take Rybelsus on an empty stomach: Take Rybelsus at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything else. Having food or drink within 30 minutes of taking Rybelsus can make it less effective. Take the tablet with a small amount of water (4 ounces).
  • Swallow the Rybelsus tablet whole: Do not crush, chew, or cut the tablet. If swallowing tablets is difficult for you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
  • Store the tablets in the closed Rybelsus bottle: The blue cap on the Rybelsus medication bottle is designed to protect the tablets so they work properly to lower your blood sugar. Do not transfer the tablets to a pill organizer.
  • Maintain proper storage conditions: Store Rybelsus at room temperature between 68- and 77-degrees Fahrenheit. Keep the bottle in a cool, dry spot like a drawer, shelf, or closet away from children and pets. Avoid humid places like the bathroom.
  • Avoid potential side effects: Nausea is a common side effect of Rybelsus, but it is usually temporary and diminishes as your body adjusts to the medication. To minimize nausea, eat smaller, more frequent meals, and avoid greasy foods. Opt for bland foods like crackers or bread. [2]

Rybelsus Overdose

prescription medication bottles

The safety profile of Rybelsus has been thoroughly evaluated during clinical trials at doses up to 40 mg. Participants reported no severe adverse events or complications in these studies. All participants recovered fully after stopping the medication. [3]

However, taking more Rybelsus than prescribed could potentially lead to side effects. The most common side effect seen with Rybelsus overdose is gastrointestinal upset, including nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. [3]

If an overdose does occur, there is no antidote that can reverse the effects of Rybelsus. The only treatment is to provide supportive medical care based on the person's symptoms. For example, medications can be given to control nausea and vomiting. IV fluids may be administered to prevent dehydration. [3]

It's important to note that Rybelsus has a long half-life of approximately one week. This means the excess medication can take over a week to fully clear from the body. Individuals who have overdosed may need extended monitoring and supportive treatment until the drug has been eliminated. [3]

Missing a Rybelsus Dose

If you miss a daily dose of Rybelsus, skip the missed dose and continue with your usual dosing schedule the next day. Don’t double up by taking two doses at once to make up for a missed dose. [1]

To help avoid missing doses, consider these tips:

  • Set a routine: Take Rybelsus at the same time each day, such as first thing in the morning when you wake up. Establishing a consistent routine will make taking your medication a habit and help ensure you don’t miss a dose.
  • Link it to existing habits: Connect taking your Rybelsus with an activity you do every morning, like brushing your teeth or taking a shower. Tying it to an existing habit will serve as a reminder so you don’t forget.
  • Travel prepared: Have a plan in place for when you're traveling. Make sure to pack enough Rybelsus to last your entire trip, plus extra in case of delays. Keep it in your carry-on bag so you always have it with you.
  • Use a calendar: Keep a medicine calendar and mark off each dose after taking it. Having a visual record of your doses provides reassurance that you’re staying on schedule. It can also serve as a reference if you’re ever unsure whether you took your Rybelsus.

Staying on track with a consistent daily routine makes managing your Rybelsus doses easier. Setting reminders, traveling prepared, and tracking your doses can help you take Rybelsus regularly and get the most out of your treatment. [4]

Conclusion

Rybelsus provides an important new treatment option for managing type 2 diabetes, but it's crucial to take it exactly as prescribed to get the full benefits and avoid potential side effects. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully regarding when and how to take your Rybelsus doses. Taking the medication consistently and correctly will help you control your blood sugar levels better.

If you ever have any questions or concerns about using Rybelsus, don't hesitate to consult your doctor. You can also visit our Rybelsus blog for more tips and information.

The content in this article is intended for informational purposes only. This website does not provide medical advice. In all circumstances, you should always seek the advice of your physician and/or other qualified health professionals(s) for drug, medical condition, or treatment advice. The content provided on this website is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

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