Rybelsus is the first oral medication in its class, containing semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It is used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. Rybelsus helps in improving blood sugar control and may also offer cardiovascular benefits. It is often used when diet, exercise, and other medications are not enough to maintain blood glucose within target levels.

Mechanism of Action
Semaglutide mimics the body’s natural GLP-1 hormone. It binds to GLP-1 receptors and activates them, helping to regulate blood sugar through several actions:

• It increases insulin secretion in response to meals, but only when blood glucose levels are high

• It suppresses the release of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar

• It slows the rate at which the stomach empties food, helping reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes

• It helps decrease appetite and can support weight loss

  Uses
  Rybelsus is prescribed to:

  • Improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes

  • Support weight loss when combined with diet and lifestyle changes

  • Potentially reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in individuals with both type 2 diabetes and established heart disease (though this is better established with the injectable form of semaglutide)

    Adverse Effects
    Rybelsus, like other GLP-1 receptor agonists, can cause side effects, particularly at the beginning of treatment or after increasing the dose.

    Common side effects:

    • Nausea

    • Diarrhoea

    • Stomach pain

    • Loss of appetite

    • Constipation