What is Rybelsus?
Rybelsus semaglutide tablets are a prescription medication for adults with type 2 diabetes that is taken once daily to help improve blood sugar levels and works in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise. In addition to its effectiveness in managing diabetes, patients using Rybelsus tablets have also reported weight loss.
How does Rybelsus work?
Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body either does not produce enough insulin or is unable to effectively use the insulin it produces to lower your blood sugar.
Rybelsus tablets contain the active ingredient semaglutide that is classified as a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist, which means it imitates the actions of certain hormones naturally produced by your body. GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone in the body responsible for regulating blood sugar levels and appetite control.
Semaglutide, a GLP-1 analogue, works by increasing the levels of GLP-1 in the body and this mechanism helps the body to manage blood sugar in two primary ways:
- Stimulating insulin production from the pancreas when blood sugar levels are elevated.
- Reducing the release of excess glucose from the liver when it is not needed.
As a result, blood glucose levels are reduced in individuals with type 2 diabetes, and there is a delay in stomach emptying and digestion after meals.
How does Rybelsus help you lose weight?
Rybelsus semaglutide tablets can cause weight loss by slowing down digestion, resulting in a prolonged feeling of fullness and reduced hunger.
How effective is Rybelsus for weight loss?
While Rybelsus semaglutide tablets are not specifically intended for weight loss, some individuals may experience weight loss as a result of using this medication.
In a 6-month study with 703 adults with type 2 diabetes, people who weighed on average about 89 kg (196 pounds) and took the lowest dose (7mg) of Rybelsus semaglutide tablets lost along 2.25 kg (5 pounds), and people who weighed on average about 88 kg and took the highest dose (14mg) lost 4 kg (8 pounds).
While weight loss was observed in many participants during medical studies, it should be noted that some individuals experienced weight gain.
It is important to note that Rybelsus semaglutide tablets should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise to effectively manage diabetes.
Where can I buy Rybelsus in the UK?
A prescription is required to buy Rybelsus online and is available from a pharmacy. It is important to note that Rybelsus semaglutide tablets are licensed specifically for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Is Rybelsus safe?
While Rybelsus tablets have shown effectiveness in promoting weight loss, it is important to consider the potential side effects and individual health factors when assessing its safety.
Key Considerations for taking Rybelsus:
- Not recommended for children or adolescents under 18 years old.
- Not to be used if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in Rybelsus, including semaglutide. Consult the Patient Information Leaflet for a comprehensive list of ingredients.
- This medication should not be used as a substitute for insulin, and it is important to avoid its use if:
- You have type 1 diabetes
- You develop diabetic ketoacidosis
- Avoid use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Stop using it two months before planning to become pregnant.
As with any medication, the safety of Rybelsus semaglutide tablets should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, with careful consideration of the individual's medical history and consultation with a healthcare professional.
How to take Rybelsus?
Always follow your doctor's instructions and take Rybelsus tablets exactly as prescribed. If you have any doubts, consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.
Dosage instructions:
- The initial dose is one 3 mg tablet taken once a day for the first month.
- After one month, your doctor will increase the dose to 7 mg once a day.
- If your blood sugar is still not well controlled with a 7 mg dose, your doctor may further increase the dose to 14 mg once a day.
Your doctor will determine the appropriate strength for you, so do not modify your dosage unless advised by your doctor. It is not recommended to take two 7 mg tablets to achieve the effect of one 14 mg tablet, as this has not been studied.
Administration of the medicine:
- Take your Rybelsus tablet at any time of the day on an empty stomach.
- Swallow the tablet whole with a sip of water (up to 120 ml). Do not split, crush, or chew the tablet, as it is unknown whether it affects the absorption of semaglutide.
- Wait at least 30 minutes after taking the Rybelsus tablet before consuming your first meal or beverage of the day, or taking other oral medications. Taking it less than 30 minutes before can reduce the absorption of semaglutide.
Is Rybelsus the same as Wegovy? Rybelsus Vs Wegovy
Rybelsus and Wegovy contain the same active ingredient, semaglutide, however, they are used for different purposes and have different formulations.
Rybelsus is an oral tablet containing semaglutide that is taken once daily to assist in improving blood sugar levels in adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
Wegovy, on the other hand, is an injectable medication specifically formulated for weight loss.
Is Rybelsus the same as Saxenda? Rybelsus Vs Saxenda
Rybelsus is not the same as Saxenda as they have different active ingredients and are used for different purposes.
Rybelsus is a once-daily oral tablet that contains semaglutide. It is prescribed to help adults with type 2 diabetes improve their blood sugar levels.
Saxenda is formulated with liraglutide as its primary active component and requires daily injections. It is specifically developed for weight management and is recommended for individuals who are obese or overweight.
What are the alternatives to Rybelsus in the UK?
An effective and clinically approved weight loss treatment that is widely available in the UK is Orlistat - a weight loss tablet that reduces the amount of fat your body absorbs from food.
When combined with a balanced lower-calorie, reduced-fat diet and regular exercise, Orlistat has been shown to significantly enhance weight loss, with potential for up to 50% greater results compared to dieting alone.