WHAT IS RYBELSUS?
Rybelsus is a treatment that can be used for weight loss. It contains Semaglutide, and works by reducing your appetite. Unlike the Semaglutide injections, however, it is available as tablets that you
take just once per day.
Rybelsus is licensed as a treatment for type 2 diabetes as it helps control blood sugar levels. However, clinical trials have found that one of the major benefits of taking it is weight loss, so it is often prescribed off-label for that reason. Please note: Rybelsus for weight loss is currently prescribed off-label.
Rybelsus helps you lose weight by slowing down your digestion and decreasing your appetite. Over time, and with a healthy diet and exercise regime, this will reduce your body weight.
Semaglutide tablets work by targeting a specific hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like-peptide-1).
GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone in the body which handles blood sugar management and appetite. Semaglutide is a GLP-1 analogue, which means it increases the levels of GLP-1 in the body.
By doing so, it helps with blood sugar management in two main ways:
-facilitates the production of insulin from the pancreas when your blood sugar levels are too high
-reduces excess glucose (sugar) from the liver when it is not needed This sequence of events means your stomach empties and digests food more slowly after eating. It is also the primary mechanism that reduces blood glucose levels in those with type 2 diabetes.
IT’S EFFECTIVE The main benefit is that the drug is effective. Results have been evidenced by clinical trials and it is a popular choice for management of weight loss.
IT’S EASY TO TAKE It also has a unique benefit compared to other weight loss drugs because it is easier to take. Most of the current weight loss drugs, whilst equally effective, require you to inject yourself daily or weekly.
Rybelsus, however, is an oral medication. It’s a tablet that you can take just once a day – a perfect alternative for those anxious about needles.
IT’S RECOMMENDED BY PROFESSIONALS Whilst currently only available off-label for weight loss, in February 2022 NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) in the UK recommended Semaglutide for obesity treatment.
For weight loss, you must start on the 3mg dose. Only once you are stable on that dose for one month can you progress to the 7mg dose. You may stay on the 7mg dose, but if deemed suitable by your doctor, your dose can be increased to 14mg after at least one month of being stable on the
7mg dose. Do not alter your dose unless you have been instructed to do so by your doctor or healthcare provider.
You cannot exceed a dose of 14mg per day. If you take more than you think you should consult your doctor as soon as possible.
You can take the Rybelsus tablet at any time of the day, but you should take it at least 30 minutes before your first meal or drink of the day. This is usually first thing in the morning. If you eat right after taking Rybelsus, it will reduce its effectiveness.
Take tablets with a sip of water, only half a glass (around 120ml). Do not crush, split or chew tablets as this will reduce the absorption of the drug.
If you miss a dose, skip this dose and take your normal dose the next day. Do not stop taking Rybelsus unless you have been instructed to do so by your doctor or healthcare provider.
If after 12 weeks on the maximum dose you have not lost at least 5% of your initial body weight, treatment should be discontinued and you should consult your doctor for an alternative.
are mild and go away on their own.
COMMON SIDE EFFECTS INCLUDE:
nausea (feeling sick)
vomiting (being sick)
indigestion and general stomach discomfort acid reflux and heartburn bloating and gas (flatulence) constipation inflammation of the stomach (gastritis) Those who also take certain other diabetes medicines, such as Metformin, are at a higher risk of
experiencing low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia or hypo) whilst using Rybelsus. It’s important you treat it straight away once you notice the symptoms.
For a full list of the potential side effects, including more serious side effects, please refer to the
patient information leaflet. It will be in the box with your medication but is also available to
download from this page.
are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or are breastfeeding
- are under the age of 18
are allergic to any of the ingredients - have type 1 diabetes
- have diabetic ketoacidosis (a complication of diabetes where your blood sugar is very high)
- If you have any other long-term conditions or take any medications, you should always consult your doctor before taking Rybelsus so they can ensure it’s safe for you to take.