Rybelsus Side Effects: What They Are & How to Manage Them

What Is Rybelsus (Semaglutide) & How Is it Used?

Rybelsus contains the active ingredient semaglutide and belongs to a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It is FDA-approved as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.¹

Notably, Rybelsus has not been studied in patients with a history of pancreatitis and is not intended for treating type 1 diabetes mellitus. While its FDA-approved use is for diabetes, some healthcare providers may consider off-label use for weight management.² An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.

Common Side Effects of Rybelsus

Common side effects of Rybelsus may include nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, decreased appetite, vomiting, and constipation. These effects are often more prevalent when starting the medication. It’s important to note that while these side effects are common, they usually improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication.

Common side effects of Rybelsus include:¹

• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Blurred vision
• Anxiety, irritability, or mood changes
• Sweating

*All medications, including Rybelsus, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Serious Side Effects of Rybelsus

Rybelsus may lead to serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These include potential inflammation of the pancreas, changes in vision, low blood sugar, kidney problems, allergic reactions, and gallbladder issues.

Serious side effects of Rybelsus include:¹

• Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
• Changes in vision
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
• Kidney problems, including kidney failure
• Serious allergic reactions
• Gallbladder problems
• Increased risk of thyroid tumors or cancer
• Severe rash or itching

*All medications, including Rybelsus, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Rybelsus Long-Term Side Effects

The long-term use of Rybelsus may be associated with certain considerations. While the medication is generally well-tolerated, it’s important to monitor for potential effects on the pancreas, as prolonged use may increase the risk of pancreatitis.

Additionally, since Rybelsus may impact thyroid function, routine thyroid monitoring is recommended during extended use. Long-term users should remain vigilant for any signs of thyroid tumors or cancer, such as neck lumps, difficulty swallowing, or hoarseness, and promptly report such symptoms to their healthcare provider.¹

Rybelsus Warnings & Precautions

Taking Rybelsus comes with important warnings. If you suspect pancreatitis, stop immediately and don’t restart. Stop taking Rybelsus and seek medical help if you suspect serious allergic reactions. Always pay attention to these warnings and seek help if needed.

Warnings and precautions for taking Rybelsus address people with:¹

• Increased risks of thyroid tumors: If you feel a lump in your neck, have trouble swallowing, or experience hoarseness or shortness of breath, let your healthcare provider know. Rybelsus may increase the risk of thyroid tumors or cancer, although it’s not confirmed in human studies.
• Pancreatitis risk: If your stomach hurts a lot and it won’t go away, especially if you just started Rybelsus, stop taking it and see a doctor. Starting Rybelsus again after pancreatitis is confirmed is not a good idea.
• Diabetic retinopathy monitoring: Diabetes can cause eye problems. While taking Rybelsus, make sure to check your eyes regularly for any changes. If something seems off with your vision, tell your doctor about it.
• Hypoglycemia with insulin use: If you take insulin with Rybelsus, you have an increased risk for low blood sugar. Watch out for feeling dizzy, sweaty, or having blurry vision. Talk to your healthcare professional about symptoms of low blood sugar and how to treat low blood sugar.
• Risk of acute kidney injury: If your stomach feels really bad and you have kidney problems, tell your doctor. They need to check if your kidneys are okay.
• Serious hypersensitivity reactions: If your face swells up, it’s hard to breathe, or you get a bad rash, stop taking Rybelsus right away and go to the doctor. It could be a serious allergy.
• Acute gallbladder disease concerns: If your stomach hurts up high, your skin or eyes turn yellow, you have a fever, or your poop is a weird color, tell your doctor. They might need to check your gallbladder.
• Precautions regarding medication timing: Take Rybelsus at least 30 minutes before eating or taking other pills. Use a little bit of water. If you don’t do this, Rybelsus might not work as well.

Allergic Reactions to Rybelsus

If you experience symptoms such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulties breathing or swallowing, severe rash or itching, fainting, or a very rapid heartbeat, it’s crucial to stop using Rybelsus and seek medical help urgently. While these reactions are uncommon, they can be severe, emphasizing the importance of being vigilant for any signs of allergy when taking Rybelsus. If any of these symptoms occur, prompt medical intervention is necessary to ensure a quick and appropriate response to the allergic reaction.

Allergic reactions to Rybelsus include:¹

• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Severe rash or itching
• Fainting or feeling dizzy
• Very rapid heartbeat

It’s essential to cease Rybelsus use and seek urgent medical help to ensure a swift and appropriate response to the allergic reaction. Contacting healthcare providers promptly enables effective management and ensures the safety of the individual experiencing these symptoms.

Interactions That May Exacerbate Rybelsus Side Effects

Certain drugs or dietary factors can interact with Rybelsus, potentially increasing the risk of side effects. When Rybelsus is used with insulin or insulin secretagogues like sulfonylureas, it boosts insulin release, raising the chance of low blood sugar. To reduce this risk, your dose of insulin may need to be decreased when starting Rybelsus.¹

Rybelsus also delays stomach emptying, affecting the absorption of oral medications. For those taking other pills with Rybelsus, closely follow instructions, and extra monitoring may be needed for drugs with a narrow therapeutic range or requiring clinical oversight.

Disclaimer: This is not a comprehensive list of possible interactions with Rybelsus. Talk with your healthcare professional about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, herbs, and supplements you take or plan to take before starting Rybelsus.

Interactions That May Exacerbate Rybelsus Side Effects

Certain drugs or dietary factors can interact with Rybelsus, potentially increasing the risk of side effects. When Rybelsus is used with insulin or insulin secretagogues like sulfonylureas, it boosts insulin release, raising the chance of low blood sugar. To reduce this risk, your dose of insulin may need to be decreased when starting Rybelsus.¹

Rybelsus also delays stomach emptying, affecting the absorption of oral medications. For those taking other pills with Rybelsus, closely follow instructions, and extra monitoring may be needed for drugs with a narrow therapeutic range or requiring clinical oversight.

Disclaimer: This is not a comprehensive list of possible interactions with Rybelsus. Talk with your healthcare professional about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, herbs, and supplements you take or plan to take before starting Rybelsus.

How to Manage Rybelsus Side Effects

For common side effects like nausea or abdominal pain with Rybelsus, these often improve over time. If severe or persistent, consult your healthcare provider. However, for serious side effects like potential thyroid issues or symptoms of allergic reactions such as swelling or breathing difficulties, seek immediate medical attention.

If you’ve had a serious allergic reaction to Rybelsus before, stop taking it and see a doctor promptly. Always report any concerning symptoms to your healthcare provider for appropriate guidance.

Everyone reacts differently to medications. While this article covers some potential side effects of Rybelsus, this list may not be exhaustive. It’s crucial to discuss your medical history and any concerns with your healthcare provider to ensure a comprehensive understanding of potential side effects and tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs.

Nausea & Vomiting

If you feel nauseous or experience vomiting with Rybelsus, try taking it with food to ease stomach discomfort. These side effects are common at the start but often improve over time. Consistent communication with your healthcare team ensures effective support throughout your Rybelsus journey.

Increased Risk of Hypoglycemia

If you notice symptoms of low blood sugar, such as dizziness or blurred vision, while taking Rybelsus, it may be helpful to keep quick sources of sugar, like glucose tablets, on hand. Talk with your healthcare provider about any other medications you take and your risk of experiencing low blood sugar. Adjustments to your treatment plan, especially if using insulin, may be necessary to minimize the risk of hypoglycemia.

Gastrointestinal Issues

For common gastrointestinal side effects like abdominal pain or diarrhea, it may be beneficial to take Rybelsus with a meal or snack. Staying well-hydrated and opting for a diet with adequate fiber may help manage these symptoms. If persistent, consulting your healthcare provider can guide you on potential adjustments or alternative approaches.

Lifestyle Tips to Reduce Rybelsus Side Effects

Making certain lifestyle adjustments can help make your experience taking Rybelsus more comfortable. To address potential gastrointestinal side effects, consider taking the medication with meals or snacks. Maintaining a well-balanced diet with sufficient fiber and staying adequately hydrated can also help manage digestive symptoms.

Regular physical activity, such as walking or other moderate exercises, can contribute to better overall health and may positively impact your response to Rybelsus. As with any lifestyle changes, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider to ensure these adjustments align with your specific health needs and enhance the effectiveness of your Rybelsus treatment.

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider About Rybelsus Side Effects

Questions to consider include asking about common side effects, strategies to manage them, and when to seek medical attention. Inquire about potential interactions with other medications or dietary factors. Your healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance, ensuring you are well-informed and comfortable throughout your Rybelsus treatment.

Questions to ask your care team about Rybelsus side effects:

• How long does it typically take for the body to adjust to Rybelsus?
• Are there specific lifestyle changes, such as dietary adjustments or exercise, that can help minimize side effects?
• If I’m already on other medications, are there potential interactions with Rybelsus that I should be aware of?
• Are there specific symptoms that would indicate I should stop taking Rybelsus and seek immediate medical attention?
• What is the recommended dosage to balance effectiveness and minimize side effects?
• Are there alternative dosages or forms of Rybelsus that may better suit my individual needs?
• If I experience gastrointestinal issues, what dietary modifications or habits may alleviate these symptoms?
• Can you provide guidance on managing potential hypoglycemia and its symptoms while on Rybelsus?
• How often should I have follow-up appointments to monitor for any emerging side effects or adjustments needed in my treatment plan?
• Are there specific symptoms or conditions in my medical history that might warrant extra attention regarding Rybelsus side effects?
• Can you offer insights into the potential impact of Rybelsus on existing thyroid conditions or medications?
• If side effects persist, what steps can we take to address or manage them effectively?
• Are there coupons for Rybelsus available to help me save on my prescription?
• How do side effects of Trulicity compare to those of Rybelsus?

For Further Reading

• Mounjaro Side Effects: What You Need to Know
• Semaglutide Side Effects: Common, Serious, & Long-Term
• Healthy Eating During Adolescence
• Semaglutide (Oral Route) Side Effects
• Saxenda Vs Ozempic: What’s the Difference?