What is Rybelsus?
Adults with diabetes type 2 can use Rybelsus (semaglutide) to regulate blood sugar. Rybelsus was also shown to aid in weight loss. However, it is not FDA-approved. Rybelsus is a once-daily tablet used in conjunction with diet and physical exercise. Rybelsus tablets lower blood sugar levels (glucose) by increasing insulin release and decreasing glucagon production. This medicine may also slow the gastric emptying following a meal. Rybelsus belongs to the class of medications called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor antagonist). Rybelsus contains the same active ingredient found in Ozempic and Wegovy. Wegovy has been approved for weight management and Ozempic for type 2 diabetes. Rybelsus does not treat type I diabetes.
Warnings
Rybelsus should not be used if you are suffering from multiple endocrine tumors type 2 (tumors of your glands) or have a family or personal history of medullary cancerous thyroid, diabetes, or diabetic ketaacidosis. If you notice any symptoms of thyroid cancer, such as swelling in your neck or a lump, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or shortness of breath, call your doctor immediately.
Similar/related drugs
Metformin, Trulicity, Lantus, Victoza, Tresiba, and Levemir
Before you take this drug
Rybelsus should not be used if:
- Multiple endocrine carcinoma type 2 (tumors on your glands);
- A personal or familial history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (a type of thyroid cancer)
Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that Rybelsus will be safe for you:
- A stomach or intestinal disorder.
- Gallbladder disease
- Pancreatitis;
- Diabetes can cause eye problems (retinopathy).
- Kidney disease is a serious condition.
Semaglutide has been shown to cause thyroid cancer or tumors in animals. These effects are not known to occur in humans. Consult your doctor to learn more about your risks. Rybelsus should not be used by anyone under the age of 18.
Side effects of Rybelsus
You should stop using Rybelsus two months prior to your planned pregnancy. Consult with your doctor about better medicine during this period. Gaining the correct amount of weight and controlling diabetes are important during pregnancy. Losing weight while pregnant can harm your unborn child, even if you're overweight. Using Rybelsus while breastfeeding is not recommended.
How to take Rybelsus?
Rybelsus should be taken exactly as prescribed by your physician. Read all instructions and medication guides. Rybelsus usually starts at a small dose and is increased gradually every 4 weeks up to 30 days. Do not overlook your physician's orders and instructions.
- Rybelsus is taken orally, typically once per day.
- Take Rybelsus as soon as you wake up and 30 minutes or more before eating or drinking anything.
- Take the tablet along with a little water (no more than 4 ounces).
- Do not chew or crush the tablet.
- You can eat or drink anything you like after 30 minutes.
Please read and follow the instructions for use. For assistance, speak to either your pharmacist or physician. Use only one brand of semaglutide. Stress, illness or surgery, exercise, alcohol consumption, or skipping meals can all affect blood sugar levels. A low blood sugar may make you feel irritable or shaky. Eat or drink hard candies, raisins, fruit, non-diet soda, or crackers to quickly treat hypoglycemia. In the case of severe hypoglycemia, your doctor may prescribe glucagon. If you experience frequent symptoms of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), such as increased thirst and urination, tell your doctor. Before changing your medication or dose, consult your doctor.
You may also be treated with diet, exercise, weight management, medical tests, and special medical care. You can become dehydrated if you have a prolonged illness. If you have diarrhea or nausea, call your doctor. Keep Rybelsus away from heat and moisture in its original packaging. Keep away from children and pets.
Details on dosage
Adult dosage for diabetes type 2:
Initial dosage: Take 3 mg orally, once daily for 30 days. Then increase the dose to 7 mg orally, once daily.
Titration If you need additional glycemic management after taking 7 mg/day orally for 30 days, then the dose can be increased to 14 mg once daily.
Maintenance Dose: Orally, 7–14 mg once daily.
Maximum dosage: 14 mg/day. (Taking two 7-mg tablets in order to get a dose of 14mg is not recommended.)
What happens if I miss the dose?
Do not take the missed dose. Use your next dose as usual. Rybelsus should not be taken in two doses at the same time.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention. Severe nausea or vomiting may occur with an overdose.
Side effects of Rybelsus
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: itching, hives, dizziness, rapid heartbeats, difficulty breathing, swelling on your face, lips, or tongue, or swelling in your throat, face, lips, and/or tongue,
If you experience:
- Vision changes
- Unusual mood swings, thoughts of hurting yourself
- If you feel your heart fluttering or pounding, then this is what it means.
- Feeling lightheaded as though they could faint.
- Signs and symptoms of thyroid cancer: swelling in the neck or a lump; difficulty swallowing; hoarseness of voice; feeling of shortness of breath.
- Symptoms: pancreatitis—severe pain spreading from your upper stomach to your back; nausea, with or without vomiting; rapid heart rate.
- Jaundice (yellowing skin or eyes), upper stomach pain, high fever, and clay-colored stools
- Low sugar; headache; hunger; weakness or sweating; confusion; and irritability.
- Kidney problems: swelling, urinating more, feeling tired, or short of breath
- Stomach symptoms: stomach cramps (may be bloody or watery), vomiting, nausea, and loss of appetite.
Rybelsus may cause side effects such as:
- Low blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes
- Gas, burping, and an upset stomach.
- Vomiting, nausea, and loss of appetite are all symptoms that can be associated with stomach pain.
- Diarrhea, constipation;
- Runny nose and sore throat
- Stomach flu symptoms;
- Headache, dizziness, and tiredness.
There may be other side effects.Call your doctor immediately if experiencing side effects; or contact the FDA's hotline, 1-800-FDA-1088, to report adverse events.
Interaction with other drug
Rybelsus may slow down your digestion and make it harder for you to absorb medicines that you take orally. Tell your doctor all of your other medications, including insulin and other diabetes medicines such as Byetta, Trulicity, or Victoza. Semaglutide may interact with other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the other medications you take.
