Rybelsus Weight Loss: Benefits, Risks, and Cost

Rybelsus® (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 drug that is prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes, and many health professionals prescribe it for weight loss. Its active ingredient, semaglutide, is the same as other weight loss medications, e.g., Ozympic® & Wegovy®, which are very common on social media. 

What is Rybelsus®? How does it work for weight loss, and what are its benefits, potential risks, and costs? This article details these basic facts about Rybelsus and its safe use. 

What is Rybelsus?  

It is a prescription drug used to treat type 2 diabetes and control blood sugar levels. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and MHRA approved it for diabetes, making it the first antidiabetic medication available in pill form rather than injections. Novo Nordisk, the company that manufactures it, also manufactures Wegovy® and Ozympic®, which have the same active ingredient as Rybelsus®. 

Semaglutide belongs to the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists and mimics the actions of this natural hormone (GLP-1) produced in the small intestines after food intake. After food intake, the intestine releases GLP-1, which signals the pancreas to release insulin. Insulin lowers blood glucose levels by absorbing glucose from the blood and channeling it into the cells for storage and energy production. 

Likewise, the GLP-1 reduces the secretions of glucagon, the pancreatic hormone with the opposite function as insulin. By inhibiting the glucagon, the GLP-1 drugs prevent the release of glucose from the liver into the bloodstream, causing lower glucose levels. 

GLP-1 agonists, like Rybelsus®, increase the stomach emptying time, thus lowering the entry of nutrients into the bloodstream and preventing spikes in blood glucose levels after the meal. This effect creates a feeling of fullness and reduces caloric intake. 

Rybelsus and weight loss Benefits 

Despite being an approved drug for type 2 diabetes, it is not yet approved as a treatment for weight management. Still, it benefits those struggling with weight management, particularly when combined with regular exercise and a healthy diet. As more than 90% of people with excessive weight and obesity have diabetes, the Rybelsus® affects both of the conditions equally. 

It's well-known benefits that Influence weight management are; 

Lower appetite 

Beyond blood sugar management, Rybelsus® helps regulate appetite. The GLP-1 receptors present in the brain, particularly in the hypothalamus, control fullness and appetite. Binding a GLP-1 agonist to these receptors sends signals to the brain to reduce food cravings and appetite. 

Rybelsus® slows the emptying process of stomach contents into the small intestines, thus increasing the stomach emptying time. This means that the food has more time to stay in the stomach, making a person fuller for a long time and reducing the unhealthy urge to eat. Rybelsus is prescribed along with other lifestyle changes, e.g., exercising more and eating fewer calories, and is not the sole treatment for obesity. 

Management of blood sugar levels 

Semaglutide, the active ingredient in the Rybelsus®, induces the pancreas to release more insulin, which moves glucose from the bloodstream to the cells for energy production. This action reduces blood glucose levels and the risk of sudden energy and glucose swings that cause a person to crave high-calorie foods. 

The semaglutide helps reduce or stop glycogen production, the hormone that raises blood glucose levels. This action thus reduces the secretion of glucose into the bloodstream from storage sites, e.g., the liver. The control over glucagon-level meals by Rybelsus® helps keep glucose levels steady and prevents excessive hunger pangs due to lower blood sugar levels.

Side effects of Rybelsus for weight loss 

The FDA's original approval of semaglutide was based on data from 10 clinical trials involving more than 9,000 participants. These trials compared these participants with the placebo group and the groups with other antidiabetic medications. These trials noted that Rybelsus® reduces body weight and A1C levels. 

It is well tolerated and safe but causes side effects for some people. The common side effects reported by the users are gastrointestinal upsets, e.g., constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. It rarely causes serious side effects, e.g., elevated heart rate, lower blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), allergic reactions causing symptoms, e.g., breathing difficulties, swelling and rashes, inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), gallstones and other gallbladder problems, and elevated risk of gallbladder cancer.  

For those experiencing side effects while taking Rybelsus®, seeking medical help from a licensed healthcare practitioner is necessary. 

If these side effects seem too much, we have discussed The Best Diet Plan for Weight Loss in another must-read article. Visit our page to read it.  

Is Rybelsus an approved treatment for weight loss? 

By 2023, Rybelsus® will be the only FDA-approved drug for patients with type 2 diabetes to help regulate their glucose levels. Novo Nordisk recently tested it for weight loss purposes. The key findings of this clinical trial, which are part of the Global OASIS Program, have been released. These trials involved more than 600 people and spanned for over 68 weeks. The participants were obese and overweight and had other weight-related health complications. 

The trial compared a daily dose of 50mg Rybelsus® with lifestyle changes to the placebo group. The trial observed significant results as a 50mg daily dose of Rybelsus caused a significant weight loss compared to the placebo group. The group using Rybelsus® experienced an astonishing 17.4% weight loss compared to just 1.8% in the placebo group. 

About 89.2% of the Rybelsus® users group experienced a significant weight loss of at least 5% or more compared to just 25.8% in the placebo group. The trial also noted Rybelsus's excellent tolerance and safety profile and found that most people experiencing side effects noted only moderate to mild gastrointestinal side effects. So, although it has not been approved as a weight loss treatment, the results are excellent, and Novo Nordisk plans to seek its approval soon. 

What is the standard cost of Rybelsus? 

Like other medications, the price of Rybelsus® varies and depends upon many factors, such as the pharmacy's location and the insurance plan. Insurance plans need prior approval and authorisation, which means the healthcare provider and the insurance company must communicate before the drug prescription. 

The insurance companies review the request and make a final decision about the price and coverage. For more details, contact the insurance company about prior authorisation. Without insurance, many UK pharmacies offer it at variable prices.

• The Bury Healthcare Online Pharmacy offers a 3mg pack of 30 tablets for £169.9, a similar pack of 7 mg for £179.99, and tablets of 14 mg for £199.99. 
• The Mayfair Weight Loss Clinic offers 3mg tablets for 175£, 7mg tablets for 185€, and 14mg for just 195£.

Thus, it is necessary to consult the local medicine providers and discuss the insurance plans.

Is the Rybelsus right for you?  

Rybelsus® is an MHR & FDA-approved drug for regulating blood glucose levels in people struggling to manage type 2 diabetes. Its use for weight loss is off-label, meaning it is not the primary purpose, and it is not for those with type 1 diabetes. 

Some people with obesity (with a BMI of 30 or more), overweight conditions (those with a BMI of 27 or more), and those with other excessive weight conditions, e.g., obstructive sleep apnea, higher cholesterol levels, and hypertension, are prescribed Rybelsus® for its off-label effects. However, its use must be solely at the discretion of a registered healthcare provider. 

Dosage guidelines for Rybelsus  

This drug is not approved for weight loss, so no dosing guidelines and information are available. For type 2 diabetes, it is available in three dosages: 3mg, 7mg, and 14mg. The required doses of Rybelsus® depend upon the individual's health conditions. 

Healthcare providers usually start the dosages at the lower doses for 30 days and then increase them depending on health conditions and tolerance levels. The recommendation is to take just one pill per day 30 minutes before drinking, taking other medications, and eating. For more guidelines, consult the local healthcare provider. 

Warnings and precautions 

People with a history of or having thyroid cancers, diabetic ketoacidosis, and dependent diabetes should avoid Rybelsus®. Consult the doctor if there are signs of thyroid cancer or if there is a lump in the neck that is making the neck swollen, causing shortness of breath and a hoarse voice.  

Its use is also contraindicated for those allergic to Rybelsus® and who have or have had a family history of tumors of endocrine glands, bladder diseases, pancreatitis, intestinal disorders, vision problems, e.g., retinopathy, and kidney diseases. It is necessary to avoid using Rybelsus® at least two months before a planned pregnancy and consult the doctor about usage guidelines during this period. 

Diabetes control is highly recommended during pregnancy as the body gains the right amount of fat. Losing weight during pregnancy is harmful for the baby, even those with obesity and overweight conditions. 

Drug interactions 

Rybelsus® slows digestion and makes it difficult for the body to absorb and process other medications. It is necessary to consult the healthcare provider if one takes insulin and related blood glucose medicines, e.g., Victoza®, Trulicity®, Byetta®, Liraglutide®, Exenatide®, and Dulaglutide®. Herbal products and vitamins also interact with liraglutide. Consult the doctor while using these medications.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are the major disadvantages of Rybelsus®? 

Excessive and higher doses of Rybelsus® often cause pancreatitis and pancreatic inflammation. If you experience signs of pancreatitis, such as pain in the upper abdomen and vomiting, stop using it and consult a healthcare provider. 

Is Rybelsus safe for long-term use? 

Rybelsus® is safe for long-term use and doesn't cause serious side effects. Although there is no risk of long-term side effects, consultation is required for use longer than one month. 

Is Rybelsus a cause of hair loss for users? 

No, hair loss is not observed in those who use it for a long time. It is commonly used in people with type 2 diabetes and used off-label for weight loss purposes.

How successful is the use of Rybelsus? 

Studies involving the long-term use of Rybelsus have shown that its results are excellent and comparable to Wegovy®, a higher-dose variant of semaglutide used for weight loss. It reduces A1C and causes greater weight loss in the users. 

Which weight loss pill has the strongest effects? 

Phentermine has the strongest effects and best potency for weight loss, but it is a short-term option only. Phentermine topiramate works better as it contains an anticonvulsant and can be taken for longer periods. 

Can those without diabetes use Rybelsus? 

Wegovy® is the only semaglutide used exclusively for weight loss, while the Rybelsus and Olympic are used only for diabetes. Nevertheless, those meeting the health and BMI criteria can use it for weight loss regardless of their diabetes status. 

Which is safer? Rybelsus® or Ozympic®? 

Although both drugs lower type 2 diabetes, the Ozympic® is approved to reduce the risk of cardiac stroke, heart attack, and death. Ozympic® is injected under the skin once a week, while Rybelsus® is taken orally or by mouth once daily. Both drugs are similar as they contain the same ingredient, semaglutide. 

How much weight loss is possible for those using Rybelsus for one month? 

The results of randomized clinical trials show that losing weight immediately after using Rybelsus® is possible. One month of regular use results in a 2kg weight loss, and two months in a 3kg weight loss. 

Bottom-line 

Rybelsus® is a novel and emerging weight-loss option for people with weight-loss complications. Despite its benefits, potential disadvantages, such as long-term impact and gastrointestinal disturbances, must be considered before adding this medication to a long-term routine. 

Likewise, the cost of Rybelsus is different and is often a game changer for some people, making it vital to weigh the potential benefits with the financial costs. Consultation with a healthcare provider ensures its suitability and safety for long-term use. 

If you are still not satisfied and need weight loss injections, Welzo has numerous options to buy from. Visit our product pages to review and order the desired weight loss injections and consult our healthcare providers.