Rybelsus is the first and only glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) receptor agonist treatment approved for use in the United States that does not need to be injected.
Rybelsus is a prescription medication used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults. It comes in the form of a once-daily pill that helps lower blood sugar levels and improve overall glycemic control.
It belongs to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which are non-insulin treatments for people with type 2 diabetes.
Advantages of Oral semaglutide
First-of-its-kind: As the first GLP-1 receptor agonist available in oral form, Rybelsus represents a significant advancement in diabetes care, offering new options for patients.
Ideal for those w/ needle phobias: A great option for those who have a fear of needles (trypanophobia).
Travel-Friendly: Easier to carry and more convenient for travel, as there’s no need to refrigerate or pack injection supplies.
Daily routine integration: Taking a pill daily can easily be integrated into your regular routine. However, the medication must be taken on an empty stomach upon waking for the day. Water intake must be minimized and kept to 4 oz. Also, don’t take any other medications with it and wait 30 min before having coffee or anything to eat or drink. It’s a perfect time to get in your morning meditation or go for a walk!
Reduced pain and discomfort: Eliminates the discomfort and potential pain associated with needle injections.
Simplified storage: Oral tablets are generally easier to store and don’t require refrigeration, simplifying daily management.
Improved adherence: The convenience of taking a pill may improve medication adherence and consistency in blood sugar management.
Reduced anxiety: The absence of needles can reduce anxiety and stress associated with diabetes management.
Enhanced quality of living: Simplifying the medication regimen can contribute to an overall better quality of life.
Comparable efficacy: Oral semaglutide has been shown to be effective in lowering HbA1c levels and managing blood sugar, like its injectable counterparts.
Safety profile: Oral semaglutide has a safety profile consistent with injectable forms, offering confidence in its long-term use.
Greater patient control: Patients may feel more in control of their treatment plan when they can manage their medication with a simple daily pill.
Does oral semaglutide work the same as injectable semaglutide?
Both once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide and once-daily oral semaglutide have been found to be equally effective in achieving and maintaining glycemic targets in clinical trials. Both formulations have shown high rates of participants achieving HbA1c < 7%. The safety profiles of both formulations are similar, and they have been associated with significant weight loss and a low risk of hypoglycemia.
Strengths, dosage & administration
3 mg Tablets: This is typically the starting dose. Patients often begin with this lower dose for the first 30 days to allow their bodies to adjust to the medication and to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
7 mg Tablets: After the initial 30-day period on the 3 mg dose, the dosage is usually increased to 7 mg once daily. This is considered the maintenance dose for many patients.
14 mg Tablets: For patients who need additional blood sugar control, the dose can be further increased to 14 mg once daily. This is the highest available dose of Rybelsus.
How does it work?
Rybelsus works by stimulating the release of insulin from the pancreas, reducing the production of glucose in the liver, and slowing down the emptying of the stomach to help control blood sugar levels.
It has been shown to be effective in lowering blood sugar and HbA1c levels. Although not indicated, it may help patients lose some weight and does not increase the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke or death.
Rybelsus vs. Wegovy vs. Ozempic
Although semaglutide is the active ingredient in Rybelsus, Wegovy, and Ozempic with the same mechanism of action, these brands have been FDA approved for different indications.
Rybelsus (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that comes in the form of a once-daily pill taken orally. It helps lower blood sugar levels by stimulating the release of insulin, reducing glucose production in the liver, and slowing down stomach emptiness. It has been FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes.
Wegovy (semaglutide), on the other hand, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that is indicated for weight management. It is administered as a once-weekly injection and helps regulate appetite and promote weight loss. Wegovy is intended to work in tandem with regular exercise and a healthy diet to help patients lose excess weight. It is also FDA approved to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in adults with cardiovascular disease and either obesity or those who are overweight.
Ozempic (semaglutide) popularly known as a “weight loss drug,” is not approved for weight loss by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is also a GLP-1 receptor agonist that is administered as a once-weekly injection. It helps lower blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin release, reducing glucose production in the liver, and slowing down stomach emptying. It is FDA approved to treat type 2 diabetes and to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in patients with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
While all three medications have the same mechanism of action, and potential side effects, they have different doses and dosing schedules.
Maker of Rybelsus
Rybelsus is developed and manufactured by Novo Nordisk (the same manufacturer of Ozempic and Wegovy), a global healthcare company based in Denmark. Novo Nordisk is well-known for its focus on diabetes care and has a long history of producing insulin and other diabetes-related medications.
Can I cut Rybelsus in half?
No, Rybelsus tablets should not be cut, crushed, or split. The tablets are designed to be taken whole. Breaking the tablet can interfere with its effectiveness and how the medication is absorbed in your body.
The specific formulation allows for proper release and absorption of the active ingredient, semaglutide.
Can I take Rybelsus at night?
Taking it at night will likely not provide the same benefits and could affect how well the medication works.
Although Rybelsus is taken in the morning, it helps ensure that the medication is absorbed properly and works effectively to manage your blood sugar levels throughout the day.
How to store Ryblesus
Our Canadian pharmacy partner takes pride in ensuring that these medications are delivered safely and at the correct temperature right to your doorstep, on par on what you would expect from a US specialty pharmacy maintaining the quality of your medication in dedication to your health and satisfaction.
For inquiries about prescription medications, contact our team at Jason’s CanadaDrugstore.com by calling 1-800-226 3784 (CAN-DRUG) for assistance from our patient representatives or a licensed Canadian pharmacist.
This article provides medical information to help understand a condition or treatment plan but is not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Contact your doctor if you have concerns or symptoms. In case of emergency, call 911.
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