| Active Ingredient | Semaglutide |
| Brand Name | Rybelsus |
| Manufacturer | Novo Nordisk A/S |
| Strength | 14 mg |
| Indication | Control of Blood Glucose Levels |
What is a Rybelsus 14 mg tablet?
Rybelsus 14 mg tablet is commonly prescribed to control high blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. When taken with a proper diet and regular exercise, there are many health benefits.
Why is it important to control high blood sugar?
High blood sugar, if left unchecked, can lead to various health complications. These include:
- Kidney damage
- Vision loss or blindness
- Nerve issues
- Potential loss of limbs
- Problems with sexual function
By managing diabetes effectively, one can also reduce the risk of severe health issues like heart attacks and strokes.
Rybelsus and weight loss
While Rybelsus has demonstrated potential benefits for weight loss in some studies, it’s important to note that it is not an FDA-approved medicine specifically for weight loss. Nevertheless, Rybelsus tablets are designed to be taken once a day, complementing a balanced diet and exercise plan.
What’s inside Rybelsus?
The active ingredient in Rybelsus 14 mg tablets is semaglutide. This component is similar to a natural hormone in our body known as incretin. Its primary function is to stimulate the release of insulin when blood sugar levels rise, especially after meals. Additionally, it helps reduce sugar production in the liver.
How is Rybelsus produced?
Rybelsus is a human glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogue. It is created using Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells, a type of yeast, through recombinant DNA technology.
How to Use Rybelsus 14 mg tablet
Use Rybelsus exactly as your doctor has instructed you to. Never take more or less than the recommended dose. It is important to note that Rybelsus should be taken at most once within 24 hours. You must use Rybelsus precisely as your doctor instructs. Take the medicine orally with a glass of water, with or without food. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Swallow it whole.
How should I take Rybelsus 14 mg tablet?
Try to take the medication at the same time every day to maintain a consistent level in your body. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses.
Before taking this medicine
Inform your doctor if you have any allergies or if you’re allergic to Rybelsus 14 mg tablets Content active ingredient, semaglutide. Discuss your medical history with your doctor, especially regarding any liver or kidney conditions, heart problems, or other health concerns. Let your doctor know about all other medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products.
What Happens If I Overdose?
If you suspect an overdose, Contact your healthcare provider immediately. If the person is unconscious or has severe symptoms, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room. Symptoms of an overdose might include severe nausea, vomiting, or signs of low blood sugar like dizziness, confusion, or excessive sweating.
Side Effects
Common side effects
Nausea: Some people may experience mild to moderate nausea, especially when starting the medication.
Vomiting: This can occur alongside nausea but usually subsides as the body adjusts to the medication.
Diarrhea: Loose stools or an increased frequency of bowel movements might be noticed.
Decreased Appetite: Some individuals may experience a reduced desire to eat.
Fatigue: Feeling tired or lacking energy can be a side effect.
Less common side effects
Pancreatitis: Symptoms include severe and persistent stomach pain that might radiate to the back, often accompanied by vomiting.
Kidney Problems: Symptoms might include changes in urine volume, swelling of the feet or ankles, and unexplained fatigue.
Vision Changes: Rapid changes in blood sugar control can lead to a worsening of diabetic retinopathy (a diabetes-related eye condition).
Allergic Reactions: Symptoms might include rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.
Depression or Mood Changes: Some people might experience mood swings, feelings of sadness, or other emotional changes.
What other drugs will affect Rybelsus 14 mg tablet?
Other Antidiabetic Medications: Combining Rybelsus with other drugs for diabetes, such as sulfonylureas or insulin, may increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It’s crucial to monitor blood sugar levels and adjust doses accordingly.
Oral Medications: Rybelsus can slow gastric emptying, which may delay or reduce the absorption of orally administered drugs. This is especially important for medications that need to be taken on an empty stomach or those with a narrow therapeutic range.
Diuretics: Medications that increase urine production can affect blood sugar control, potentially leading to the need for Rybelsus dosage adjustments.
Steroids: Drugs like prednisone can raise blood sugar levels, potentially decreasing the effectiveness of Rybelsus.
Thyroid Medications: Rybelsus might interfere with thyroid function tests. If you’re on thyroid medications, your doctor may need to monitor your thyroid levels more closely.
Birth Control Pills: Rybelsus may affect the absorption of oral contraceptives, potentially reducing their effectiveness. If you’re using oral birth control, consider using an additional method of contraception.
Alcohol: Consuming alcohol while on Rybelsus might increase the risk of low blood sugar or pancreatitis. It’s advised to limit alcohol intake.
Warnings
Thyroid Tumors: Rybelsus may increase the risk of certain thyroid tumors. It’s essential to monitor for symptoms such as a lump or swelling in the neck, persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath.
Pancreatitis: Rybelsus may increase the risk of pancreatitis. Be on the lookout for symptoms like severe and persistent stomach pain, which might radiate to the back and is often accompanied by vomiting.
Hypoglycemia: When used in conjunction with other diabetes medications, there’s an elevated risk of low blood sugar. Regularly monitor blood sugar levels and be aware of hypoglycemia symptoms like dizziness, confusion, shaking, or sweating.
Diabetic Retinopathy: Rapid changes in blood sugar control can lead to a worsening of diabetic retinopathy (a diabetes-related eye condition). It’s crucial to have regular eye check-ups.