Rybelsus 3mg (Semaglutide) 30s

What is Rybelsus® (Semaglutide) used for​​​?

Rybelsus® contains the active ingredient Semaglutide. Semaglutide belongs to a group of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. While it was initially developed for adults with type-2 diabetes, its effect in aiding weight loss has been widely noted in clinical studies.

How does Rybelsus® (Semaglutide) work​​​ in weight loss?

Rybelsus® addresses one of the body's natural responses to weight loss.

• The body naturally produces an appetite hormone known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) that helps to regulate hunger
• Rybelsus® works like GLP-1 by regulating appetite, which can lead to increased feelings of fullness, eating fewer calories and thus losing weight

The effectiveness of Rybelsus in weight loss is enhanced when combined with lifestyle changes like a balanced diet and regular physical activity.

How much weight can I lose with Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is considered off-label for the treatment of weight loss but its favourable effects have been documented in clinical studies:

In a 26 week study with 703 adults, Rybelsus® contributed to ≥5% body weight reduction, which was significantly more substantial than the weight loss in the placebo group.

Dosage and How to Use​

To minimise potential side effects, the dose of Rybelsus is gradually increased to maximise tolerance. The usual starting dose is 3 mg once daily, followed by 7 mg and then potentially to a maximum of 14 mg, based on individual responses and tolerability.

Rybelsus has to be taken on an empty stomach with just a mouthful (maximum 120ml) of water. Please do not take too much water as water can interfere with the absorption of Rybelsus. You are then not allowed to eat or drink anything (even water) for at least 30 minutes to an hour afterwards.

What to do if I missed a dose?

If you forget a dose, take the medication as soon as you remember. However, if it is more than 12 hours skip the missed dose. Then take the next dose as usual the following day. Do not take an extra dose or increase the dose on the following day to make up for the missed dose.

What are the possible side effects of Rybelsus® (Semaglutide)?​

The most common side effects are nausea and diarrhoea. Some patients may also experience a decrease in appetite, stomach pain, vomiting, or constipation. These side effects often get better in a few days or weeks, hence you are advised to continue taking the medicine. However, please speak to your doctor or pharmacist if the side effects continue or are very serious. 

Another common side effect is low blood sugar, especially if Rybelsus® (Semaglutide) is used together with other diabetes medicines like sulfonylureas (e.g. Glipizide, Gliclazide). Symptoms of low blood sugar are weakness, dizziness, hunger, sweating, trembling, blurred vision, unsteady walk or fast heartbeat. Inform your doctor if the side effects above become severe and bother you.

You should stop taking your medicine and check with your doctor immediately if you have these symptoms:

• Very bad pain in the stomach, abdomen or back area 
• Nausea or vomiting that does not go away
• Fever

What precautions should I take?

Inform your doctor if:

• you are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
• you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant
• you are breastfeeding
• you have a heart condition, kidney or liver problem
• you have stomach or intestinal problems, gastroparesis (a condition where there is delayed stomach emptying) or inflammatory bowel disease
• you have thyroid problem

This drug may cause dizziness, if affected, do not drive or operate machinery.

What other medications and foods should I avoid when taking Rybelsus® (Semaglutide)?

It is recommended to limit your intake of alcohol while using Rybelsus®.

Handling and storage

• ​Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Keep the medicine out of reach of children.
• Throw away all expired medicines.

The above information answers some common questions about this medicine. It does not contain all the available information. It also does not take the place of talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

References

https://www.rybelsus.com/

https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/42/9/1724/36289/PIONEER-1-Randomized-Clinical-Trial-of-the