The FDA approved Rybelsus in 2017 to treat type 2 diabetes. This once-daily tablet is the only oral form of semaglutide. Other medications containing semaglutide include Ozempic and Wegovy.

When used alongside lifestyle changes such as healthy eating and exercise, semaglutides can improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes.

Semaglutides belong to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. They lower blood sugar by mimicking the actions of a natural hormone in the body called GLP-1. In this way, they can:

• Stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin so that excess sugar can be removed from the bloodstream.
• Decrease glucagon release from the liver.
• Slow stomach emptying which helps create a feeling of fullness and decreases appetite.

If you have type 2 diabetes, talk to your doctor about whether Rybelsus could be helpful for you. They can review your medical history and current treatment regimen and determine if this medication is suitable.

When it's time to fill your Rybelsus prescription, consider using an online Canadian pharmacy like Canadian Med Center. By filling your prescriptions through a reputable online Canadian pharmacy, you can often save up to 90% on prescription costs compared to U.S. retail prices.

Rybelsus contains the active ingredient semaglutide, which belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. Semaglutides work by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1 that your intestines naturally release when you eat. This allows Rybelsus to help control blood sugar in three different ways:

• Rybelsus signals the pancreas to produce insulin after meals, which helps move glucose out of the bloodstream and into cells for energy. By prompting insulin release when needed, Rybelsus helps keep blood sugar from spiking too high.

• Rybelsus inhibits the production of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels. By reducing glucagon, the medication prevents too much glucose from being released from the liver into the blood.

• Rybelsus slows down how quickly food leaves the stomach. This slower stomach emptying can prevent spikes in blood sugar after eating. It may also lead to feeling full longer, which can decrease overall calorie intake and assist with weight management.

Rybelsus comes as oral tablets in three strengths: 3 mg, 7 mg, and 14 mg. Your doctor will start you on a low dose of Rybelsus and gradually increase it to the maintenance dose so your body can adjust to the medication.

• Month 1: Your doctor will prescribe a once-daily dose of 3 mg for 30 days. This introductory dose helps your body acclimate to Rybelsus, although it may not completely control your blood sugar at this stage.

• Month 2: Your doctor will increase your dosage to 7 mg once daily. For some patients, this dose is enough to improve glycemic control.

• Month 3: If your blood sugar is still too high after 30 days of taking 7 mg of Rybelsus, your doctor will increase your dose to a maximum of 14 mg once daily.

Common side effects of Rybelsus tend to be mild and typically lessen over time as the body adjusts to the medication. When first starting treatment, or after dose increases, patients experience:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Decreased Appetite
• Vomiting
• Constipation

Long-term Rybelsus usage can cause some serious side effects that require close monitoring by a doctor. These include:

• Pancreatitis
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Hypoglycemia
• Acute kidney injury

Can I use Rybelsus when I’m pregnant?

There is limited information available on the safety of Rybelsus use during pregnancy. Therefore, if you’re pregnant it’s essential to talk with your doctor about the potential risks of continuing Rybelsus.

Uncontrolled blood sugar levels during pregnancy can harm both you and your baby. If you cannot continue Rybelsus during pregnancy, your doctor will likely prescribe alternative medications.

How do I take Rybelsus?

Rybelsus is taken orally once daily on an empty stomach. For best results, take Rybelsus 30 minutes before consuming any food, water, or other medications. This ensures Rybelsus works optimally without interference from food or drinks.

If you miss a dose of Rybelsus, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for the missed dose.

Can I use Rybelsus for weight loss?

While Rybelsus is currently only FDA-approved as a treatment for type 2 diabetes, recent research suggests it could also be an effective medication for weight loss.

In late 2023, Novo Nordisk released promising data from a 68-week phase 3a clinical trial evaluating Rybelsus for weight loss in 667 overweight and obese participants. At the end of the 68 weeks, participants had lost an average of 17.5% of their body weight while taking Rybelsus.