What is Rybelsus used for?
Rybelsus (semaglutide) is a once‑daily oral medication used with diet and exercise to lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). It is the only semaglutide product that is not an injection. In clinical studies, people taking Rybelsus reduced their A1C levels by 1.2% to 1.4% after 26 weeks. The A1C test measures average blood sugar over the past three months; the target for most adults with T2DM is under 7%. In these studies, 69% to 77% of participants achieved an A1C below 7%.
Although not FDA‑approved for weight loss, Rybelsus is sometimes used off‑label for this purpose, particularly during shortages of injectable semaglutide products such as Ozempic and Wegovy.
Rybelsus FAQs
What Conditions Does Rybelsus Treat?
Rybelsus is FDA‑approved, along with diet and exercise, to improve blood glucose levels in adults with T2DM. It carries a boxed warning against use in people with a personal or family history of certain thyroid cancers. It should not be used in type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
How Does Rybelsus Work?
The active ingredient, semaglutide, is a GLP‑1 receptor agonist. GLP‑1 is a hormone released by the gut after eating. Rybelsus activates GLP‑1 receptors, prompting the pancreas to release more insulin, suppressing liver glucose production, and slowing digestion to help reduce appetite and support weight loss.
What Doses Are Available?
- 3 mg
- 7 mg
- 14 mg
What Is the Best Way to Take Rybelsus?
Take Rybelsus exactly as prescribed. It should be taken on an empty stomach upon waking with no more than 4 ounces of water. Wait at least 30 minutes before consuming food, other beverages, or oral medications. Swallow tablets whole; do not crush, split, or chew them. If you miss a dose, skip it and resume your regular schedule.
Are There Any Drug Interactions?
Rybelsus may alter the absorption or effects of other medications. Inform your healthcare provider about all prescription drugs, over‑the‑counter medications, vitamins, and supplements you take, especially:
- Other diabetes medications (insulin, sulfonylureas, metformin)
- Any oral drugs affected by slowed gastric emptying
What Are the Possible Side Effects?
Common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Decreased appetite and weight loss
- Constipation
- Vomiting
Other possible side effects:
- Bloating
- Indigestion and reflux
- Gas
Rare but serious side effects may include:
- Anaphylaxis (hives, facial or throat swelling, trouble breathing)
- Thyroid tumors (medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN 2): lump or swelling in neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath
- Pancreatitis (severe upper abdominal pain radiating to the back, nausea, rapid heartbeat)
- Diabetic retinopathy complications (vision changes)
- Hypoglycemia when used with other diabetes drugs (sweating, dizziness, confusion, fast heartbeat)
- Kidney problems (thirst, reduced urination, dry skin)
- Gallbladder issues (upper stomach pain, fever, clay‑colored stools)
Contact your healthcare provider for medical advice and report adverse effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Who Should Not Take Rybelsus?
Avoid Rybelsus if you are allergic to semaglutide or any inactive ingredients, or if you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN 2.
What Should You Tell Your Healthcare Provider?
- Kidney or pancreatic problems
- Vision issues related to diabetes
- Pregnancy plans (stop Rybelsus at least 2 months before conception)
- Breastfeeding or plans to breastfeed
Is Rybelsus Prescribed for Weight Loss?
While approved for T2DM, Rybelsus is used off‑label for weight loss. Its active ingredient, semaglutide, is approved under the brand Wegovy for obesity and under Ozempic for diabetes and cardiovascular risk reduction.
How Much Weight Can You Lose on Rybelsus?
One study found that participants on the 14 mg dose lost an average of 4.4 kg (less than 5% of body weight) after 52 weeks, compared to 0.5 kg with placebo.
How Quickly Does Rybelsus Work for Weight Loss?
Weight loss often begins within the first 1–2 weeks, continues steadily until week 26, and then plateaus.
Does Rybelsus Cause Hair Loss?
Hair loss was not reported in clinical trials; however, type 2 diabetes itself may be associated with hair loss.
Will Insurance Cover Rybelsus for Weight Loss?
Off‑label use for weight loss is typically not covered by insurance. Discount programs such as Universal Drug Store may offer up to 80% off the average retail price with a valid prescription.
How Should You Store Rybelsus?
Store Rybelsus in its original container at room temperature (68–77°F / 20–25°C) in a dry place. Keep out of reach of children.
Related Medications
- Wegovy (semaglutide)
- Ozempic (semaglutide)
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
- Saxenda (liraglutide)
- Victoza (liraglutide)
- Trulicity (dulaglutide)