When we say we have many options for weight loss in our toolbox, we mean it. Just a few years ago, the options were so limited. Now we have the class of drugs that fall into the GLP 1 agonist category, better known as Ozempic or Wegovy.
The active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy is Semaglutide. It’s a medication used for treating diabetes, but has been used for weight loss to treat patients with obesity without diabetes. The use of Ozempic and Wegovy is in the form of a once weekly injection. What if I told you that the same medication also comes in a pill? This is true. Semaglutide also comes in a once daily pill and it’s marketed under the brand name Rybelsus.
Rybelsus is used for adults with type two 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 once a day tablet that is used along with a healthy diet and exercise.
Rybelsus works by stimulating insulin secretion and lowering glucose consecration when blood glucose levels are high. It also causes a slowing down and how fast the stomach empties, making a person feel full. It is an oral tablet which is taken once a day. The usual starting dose is 3 mg once daily, which can then be increased further.
Semaglutide is a large molecule that is not absorbed through the intestine. This is why we use semaglutide in injection form in Ozempic and Wegovy. However Rybelsus tablets are formulated with salcaprozoate, which is an absorption promoter. The addition of salcaprozoate allows semaglutide to be absorbed, which means Rybelsus tablets can be taken orally.
One of the ways Rybelsus works is by helping you feel full after a meal. Best of all, there is no dose adjustment needed in people with kidney or liver disease.
Rybelsus needs to be taken on an empty stomach.
Rybelsus can have some side effects of low blood sugar especially if used in combination with insulin or other diabetes medications.
Rybelsus may increase the risk of pancreatitis. Rybelsus also should not be used in people with a history of thyroid cancer.
As always, there are many benefits of weight loss medications such as Rybelsus. However, there are possible side effects, and risks. This is why patients should always be under the care of a physician experienced in treatment of obesity and closely monitored for any potential adverse effects.
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