Rybelsus

Rybelsus tablet is composed of semaglutide available in 3mg, 7mg and 14mg, an oral GLP-1 receptor agonist developed by Novo Nordisk, that is supposed to be taken once daily. 

Semaglutide is known to act with appetite suppression, the prolonging of satiety, and the decreasing of the urges for foods; such effects would result in less food consumption as well as weight loss.

What is Rybelsus used for?

Rybelsus is the oral form of semaglutide indicated in adults that helps to suppress appetite, create feelings of satiety and diminish thoughts about food, hence, leading food consumption to be less and weight to come off.

TGA has released information stating clinical trials that semaglutide can lower body weight and body fat content via decreasing energy intake due to mechanisms such as:

• Reduced appetite
• Increased satiety
• Reduced hunger
• Better control of eating
• Reduced food cravings
• Reduced preference for high-fat foods 

How does Rybelsus work?

Rybelsus contains semaglutide, which mimics the action of GLP-1, a hormone involved in appetite regulation.

It works through several effects in the body:

• Helps the pancreas release insulin when blood glucose is elevated
• Reduces glucagon secretion
• Slows gastric emptying
• Increases feelings of fullness
• Reduces hunger and food intake

The appetite-related effects can contribute to weight reduction in people who respond to treatment. 

Rybelsus dosage

Treatment is normally started at a lower dose and increased gradually:

• 3mg once daily for the first month
• 7mg once daily after the initial month
• 14mg once daily may be used after at least one month on 7mg when additional treatment effect is needed.

Can Rybelsus help with weight loss?

Yes, weight reduction is an established effect of semaglutide, although the approved indication of Rybelsus is important.

TGA information reports that semaglutide reduces body weight and body fat through lower energy intake, increased satiety, reduced hunger and improved control of food cravings. 

Common side effects of Rybelsus

The most common side effects of oral semaglutide involve the digestive system.

They may include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Reduced appetite
• Indigestion
• Bloating

Digestive symptoms can become more noticeable when the dose is increased from 3mg to 14mg.

When should you contact a doctor?

Speak with a healthcare professional if you develop severe or persistent:

• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Stomach problems
• Symptoms of dehydration

Severe abdominal pain, particularly pain that may extend to the back, can require urgent medical assessment because pancreatitis is a recognised risk with GLP-1 medicines.

Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea can also cause dehydration and may affect kidney function.

Precautions before taking Rybelsus

Tell your doctor if you have:

• A history of pancreatitis
• Gallstones or gallbladder disease
• Severe gastrointestinal disease
• Gastroparesis or delayed stomach emptying
• Kidney disease
• Diabetic retinopathy
• A history of serious allergic reactions
• A personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
• Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)

People with significant stomach-emptying problems may experience more severe gastrointestinal effects with GLP-1 medicines.

Rybelsus and pregnancy

Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Semaglutide isn’t recommended during pregnancy. For semaglutide products for use with weight management, Australian product information recommends that treatment be stopped at least 2 months prior to planned pregnancy.

If you get pregnant when you’re using Rybelsus, talk to your healthcare professional.

How to store Rybelsus

Store Rybelsus below 30°C.

Keep the tablets:

• In the original blister pack
• Protected from moisture
• Away from excessive heat
• Away from children
• Within the expiry date

Healthdirect Australia lists storage below 30°C for Rybelsus.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can Rybelsus be taken with other diabetes medicines?

Yes, Rybelsus can be prescribed alongside other diabetes medicines when appropriate. 

2. Can Rybelsus cause dehydration?

Indirectly contributes to dehydration, particularly when accompanied by nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea (which may make maintaining adequate fluid intakes challenging).

Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea should also be reported to a health care professional, especially if there are any concerns regarding kidney function.

3. Does Rybelsus affect how quickly the stomach empties?

Yes. Semaglutide delays gastric emptying, particularly after meals. This contributes to some of its effects on fullness and appetite, but it can also affect the absorption of some oral medicines.

4. Can Rybelsus cause gallbladder problems?

Gallbladder problems, including gallstones and inflammation of the gallbladder, can occur with semaglutide treatment. Seek medical advice if you develop persistent or severe upper abdominal pain, particularly if it occurs with fever, vomiting or yellowing of the skin or eyes.

5. Should mood changes be reported while taking Rybelsus?

Yes, the TGA aligned warnings across the GLP-1 receptor agonist class regarding reports of suicidal thoughts or behaviours and advises monitoring for new or worsening depression or unusual changes in mood or behaviour. 

Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. Always follow the prescription, current product information and instructions provided by your healthcare professional.