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Rybelsus

Generic name: semaglutideSEM-a-GLOO-tide ]
Drug class: GLP-1 Agonists (Incretin Mimetics)

Medically reviewed by Melisa Puckey, BPharm. Last updated on Nov 13, 2024.

What is Rybelsus?

Rybelsus tablets (semaglutide) are used for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus to control blood sugar levels. Rybelsus has also been shown in studies to help weight loss, but it is not an FDA-approved weight loss medicine. Rybelsus tablets are a once-a-day tablet that is used along with diet and exercise.

Rybelsus tablets work to lower blood sugar (glucose) levels by increasing how much insulin is released and decreasing glucagon secretion. This medicine also may slow gastric emptying after eating. Rybelsus is from the class of medicines called GLP-1 receptor agonists (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist).

Rybelsus tablets contain the same active ingredient as Wegovy injection and Ozempic injection. Wegovy is approved for weight management, and Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes.

Rybelsus is not for treating type 1 diabetes.

Warnings

You should not use Rybelsus if you have multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (tumors in your glands), a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer, insulin-dependent diabetes, or diabetic ketoacidosis.

Call your doctor at once if you have signs of a thyroid tumor, such as swelling or a lump in your neck, trouble swallowing, a hoarse voice, or shortness of breath.

What is the cost of Rybelsus?

The cost of prescription drugs varies depending on your insurance plan and which pharmacy you use. Refer to our Rybelsus price guide page for more information about the cost.

You may also be eligible for a Rybelsus savings card, Rybelsus coupon, or Rybelsus copay card. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you qualify.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Rybelsus if you are allergic to semaglutide, or if you have:

To make sure Rybelsus is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

In animal studies, semaglutide caused thyroid tumors or thyroid cancer. It is not known whether these effects would occur in people. Ask your doctor about your risk.

Rybelsus is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Stop using Rybelsus at least 2 months before you plan to get pregnant. Ask your doctor for a safer medicine to use during this time. Controlling diabetes is very important during pregnancy, as is gaining the right amount of weight. Even if you are overweight, losing weight during pregnancy could harm the unborn baby.

You should not breastfeed while using Rybelsus.

How should I take Rybelsus?

Take Rybelsus exactly as prescribed by your doctor by following all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Rybelsus is usually started at a low dose that is gradually increased every 4 weeks to 30 days. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

Read and follow all Instructions for Use. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you need help.

Do not use different brands of semaglutide at the same time.

Blood sugar can be affected by stress, illness, surgery, exercise, alcohol use, or skipping meals.

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can make you feel very hungry, dizzy, irritable, or shaky. To quickly treat hypoglycemia, eat or drink hard candy, crackers, raisins, fruit juice, or non-diet soda. Your doctor may prescribe glucagon injection in case of severe hypoglycemia.

Tell your doctor if you have frequent symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) such as increased thirst or urination. Ask your doctor before changing your dose or medication schedule.

Your treatment may also include diet, exercise, weight control, medical tests, and special medical care.

You may get dehydrated during prolonged illness. Call your doctor if you are sick with vomiting or diarrhea, or if you eat or drink less than usual.

Store Rybelsus in the original package at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Diabetes Type 2:
Initial dose: 3 mg taken orally once a day for 30 days, then increase to 7 mg taken orally once a day.
Titration: If additional glycemic control is needed after receiving 7 mg/day for at least 30 days, the dose may increase to 14 mg orally once a day.
Maintenance dose: 7 to 14 mg orally once a day.
Maximum dose: 14 mg/day (taking two 7 mg tablets to achieve a 14 mg dose is not recommended).

What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose and use your next dose at the regular time.

Do not use two doses of Rybelsus at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose may cause severe nausea, vomiting, or low blood sugar.

Rybelsus side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Rybelsus: hives, itching; dizziness, fast heartbeats; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Pulmonary aspiration during general anesthesia or deep sedation has been reported in patients receiving GLP-1 receptor agonists undergoing elective surgeries or procedures. Instruct patients to inform healthcare providers of any planned surgeries or procedures. 

Call your doctor at once if you have:

Common Rybelsus side effects may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Rybelsus?

Rybelsus can slow your digestion, and it may take longer for your body to absorb any medicines you take by mouth.

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially insulin or other diabetes medicine, such as dulaglutide, exenatide, liraglutide, Byetta, Trulicity, Victoza, and others.

Other drugs may interact with semaglutide, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Does Rybelsus interact with my other drugs?

Enter medications to view a detailed interaction report using our Drug Interaction Checker.

What are the ingredients in Rybelsus?

Active Ingredient: semaglutide

Inactive Ingredients: magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone and salcaprozate sodium (SNAC).

Popular FAQ

Rybelsus vs Ozempic for weight loss: Which to choose?

Both Rybelsus and Ozempic are FDA approved to treat adults with Type 2 diabetes, but can cause weight loss as a side effect. In separate clinical trials, patients lost up to 3.7 kg (8 lbs) over 26 weeks of taking Rybelsus, and up to 4.7 kg (10 lbs) over 30 weeks with Ozempic. Continue reading

What foods should I eat or avoid when taking Rybelsus?

There are no specific foods to avoid, but if you are being treated for type 2 diabetes you should avoid regular consumption of foods high in fat, sugar and calories. Rybelsus works best if you combine it with a healthy diet and exercise plan as recommended by your healthcare provider. Continue reading

How much weight can you lose with Rybelsus?

Although Rybelsus is not a weight loss drug, many people lose weight while taking it. People lost, on average, five pounds (2.3kg) while taking Rybelsus 7mg, and 8.1 pounds (3.7kg) while taking Rybelsus 14mg. Continue reading

How long does it take for Rybelsus to start working?

Rybelsus is initially started at a low 3mg dose to reduce side effects, with the dose increased to 7mg after 30 days. It typically takes 4-5 weeks to reach steady levels after each dose increase, so full effects may take 2-3 months. Some individuals may need a 14mg dose for optimal effectiveness. Continue reading

Can you just stop taking Rybelsus?

You can stop taking Rybelsus if you and your healthcare provider decide you should stop treatment. You may need to stop Rybelsus because it isn’t working, due to a serious side effect or to change treatments. Speak with your healthcare provider about how to manage your medical condition first. Continue reading

What's the easiest way to open a Rybelsus bottle?

Step-by-step guide to open your bottle of Rybelsus: 1. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly. 2. Find the child-resistant blue cap on the top of the Rybelsus bottle. 3. Look for markings on the bottle cap that show which way to twist the cap to open. Hold the blue cap tightly, push down and twist the cap in a counter-clockwise direction. The cap should separate from the white plastic strip below it and twist open. Continue reading

Rybelsus Copay Card: Do I qualify? Savings explained

With the Novo Nordisk copay card, you could pay as little as $10 for a 1-month prescription of Rybelsus (semaglutide) with a maximum savings of $300 per fill, if you qualify. This offer may be used for up to 48 months after you activate your card online. Continue reading

What is the mechanism of action for Rybelsus?

Rybelsus works for your type 2 diabetes in 3 ways: it helps to reduce your blood sugar levels by increasing insulin, it decreases the amount of sugar made and released from the liver, and it slows down how fast food leaves your stomach to help you feel more full. Continue reading

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Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Rybelsus only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.