Rybelsus: Uses, Side Effects, And Precautions – A Complete Guide

Rybelsus is getting popular among the blood sugar support medications. It is getting famous among the user circles and there are reports that people have been asking their doctors for this and its demand is also increasing in the pharmacy stores.

However, is Rybelsus for everyone? You might not know the answer to that question. In this article, you can read about the uses, side effects, and precautions of Rybelsus. 

The Different Uses Of Rybelsus

Is Rybelsus to be strictly used for type 2 diabetes? Does it have any other benefits?

  • For Type 2 diabetes

Rybelsus is predominantly used as a medication for type 2 diabetes. It is a doctor-prescribed medication and you are not to use it on your own. 

Rybelsus Side Effects

The active ingredient in this medication is semaglutide. It mimics the functions of the GLP-1  (glucagon-like peptide) receptor agonist hormone. It helps to control the blood sugar hike that can happen after a meal, by supporting the liver to produce more insulin. 

Rybelsus is not prescribed for anyone having type 1 diabetes or any other conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis. 

Other than this, Rybelsus is also used as an off-label medication. 

When a medication or drug is manufactured it goes under the FDA guidelines and the FDA approves it. The approval of the FDA would list certain properties that the medication has and certain conditions that it can be used for.

In the case of Rybelsus, the FDA approves it as a medication for type 2 diabetes. However, it can be used for other purposes as well, and the medication is not approved by the FDA to be used for these medications. These can be said as the other uses of Rybelsus. 

  • For weight management

Weight loss is reported as one of the side effects of this medication. However, it is prescribed for weight loss as an off-label medication. In clinical trials, it was found that those who took Rybelsus regularly for six weeks were able to lose around 8 pounds. 

Rybelsus Side Effects

There can be certain side effects from the usage of Rybelsus. They are as follows:

Rybelsus’s common side effects

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Decreased appetite
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Abdominal pain

Less severe side effects of Rybelsus

This is a list of the mild side effects that Rybelsus can cause:

  • Bloating, gas trouble
  • Burping
  • Indigestion
  • Acid reflux
  • Mild allergies
  • Skin rashes, itching, tongue swelling, throat swelling, eyelid swelling, lip swelling, swelling of hand or feet
  • Weight loss

Rybelsus severe side effects 

  • Pancreatitis
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Kidney failure, kidney problems
  • Swollen feet, ankles
  • Gallbladder inflammation
  • Jaundice
  • Thyroid cancer risks
  • Severe allergic reactions

Note that, the above list does not include all the side effects reported from the clinical trials of Rybelsus. Make sure that your doctor has access to all your medical history. It is because someone who already has pancreatitis or any other condition might face a worsening of their condition when they take this medication. 

Precautions While Using Rybelsus

There are some things that you have to take care of when you use Rybelsus. These precautions are as follows:

  • Make sure that the doctor prescribed Rybelsus for you

  • Should be open about all of your health issues when you consult the doctor

  • The doctor should have access to all the medications that you currently follow

  • Consuming alcohol while taking this medication is not recommended

  • It is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women

Note that Rybelsus might not be suitable for all those who have type 2 diabetes. According to the safety of your condition, and your health and family history, your doctor will be able to make a decision on whether it is the best for you. 

Related: Rybelsus vs Metformin: What’s the Difference? All You Need To Know

Conclusion

Now you more about the medication. However, it does not license you to use it on your own accord. Note that, if you miss the dose on any day, then nothing can go wrong. You just have to be regular and consistent from the next day onwards. It is not that the side effects mentioned above happen to everyone. Although, when you use it, keep an eye out for the side effects.

FAQ

Q. What happens if I overdose on Rybelsus, accidentally?

An overdose of Rybelsus can cause severe side effects such as extreme vomiting, nausea, or low blood glucose. If you overdose on Rybelsuus you are to either contact the Poison Help line or get emergency medical attention. 

Q. What are the inactive ingredients in Rybelsus?

The inactive ingredients in Rybelsus are microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, povidone, and salcaprozate sodium (SNAC).

Q. Can I take two 7 mg tablets rather than taking one 14 mg tablet?

14 mg is the maximum advised dosage per day. It is not recommended to take two 7 mg tablets instead of one 14 mg tablet.

About the Author

Nicole Carter is a dedicated and passionate nutritionist, committed to helping individuals achieve their health and wellness goals through the power of proper nutrition. With a Bachelor's degree in Nutritional Science and years of practical experience.

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