Rybelsus is an oral medication used to manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes, but many are unaware of the potential adverse effects. 

This article outlines what you need to know about the side effects of this medicine.

Three boxes of Rybelsus

Key Points:

  • Rybelsus may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches.
  • Rare but serious side effects include thyroid tumors, pancreatitis, and worsening kidney problems.
  • Gradually adjusting the dosage and making dietary changes can help alleviate common side effects like nausea.
  • This medication is safe for long-term use in managing blood sugar levels and may also reduce cardiovascular risk.

Table of Contents

What is Rybelsus?

Rybelsus is an oral medication approved by the FDA in 2019 to help manage blood sugar levels and A1c (a measure of glucose management over the previous 2 to 3 months) in people with type 2 diabetes. 

It shares the active ingredient semaglutide with medications like Wegovy and Ozempic. In clinical trials, Rybelsus helped participants lower their A1C by 1 to 1.3 percent from an 8.3 percent baseline. 

Read more in: Everything You Need to Know About Rybelsus.

While not approved for weight loss, it has shown potential for this effect; in the OASIS 1 trial, participants lost an average of 17% of their body weight over 68 weeks, with 40% losing 20% or more compared to those not on the medication.

Learn more in: Rybelsus for Weight Loss: Everything You Need to Know.

What are the common side effects of Rybelsus?

Many people taking this treatment may experience mild side effects, particularly when starting the medication or increasing the dose. The most common side effects include:

  • Nausea (the most common)
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomachache
  • Constipation
  • Heartburn
  • Gas or bloating
  • Lethargy
  • Headache

Most of these symptoms are not serious and often fade as your body adjusts to the medication. However, it’s important to keep your doctor informed of any side effects.

What are the more serious side effects of Rybelsus?

This medicine may cause rare but serious side effects, including:

Thyroid tumors, including cancer, particularly in people with a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)

  • Pancreatitis
  • Vision changes
  • Worsening kidney problems
  • Mental changes or depression
  • Serious allergic reactions

Some people may also experience hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially if they are on insulin therapy. Symptoms of low blood sugar include:

  • Dizziness
  • Light-headedness
  • Confusion
  • Sudden mood or perception changes
  • Shakiness
  • Rapid heartbeat

Recognizing and treating low blood sugar is essential. If you experience any of these symptoms, test your blood sugar immediately.

It’s important to discuss all potential side effects with your doctor, who can guide you on managing the risks and benefits of this therapy. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience serious side effects, allergic reactions, fever, vision changes, or weakness.

Can Rybelsus cause depression?

While the medication is generally well-tolerated, there have been reports of mood changes, including symptoms of depression, in some people taking the medication. 

Depression is considered a rare side effect of Rybelsus, but it is important to monitor any changes in mood or behavior. 

If you experience symptoms such as persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep patterns, or thoughts of self-harm, it’s important to speak with your doctor immediately. 

Your healthcare provider can assess whether the prescription or another factor might be contributing to these symptoms and recommend appropriate adjustments to your treatment plan.

How can I reduce the side effects of Rybelsus?

Nausea is the most common side effect. To help alleviate nausea, consider these tips:

  • Temporarily switch to a diet of bland, low-fat foods, such as crackers, toast, or rice.
  • Eat foods with high water content, like soups and Jell-O.
  • Avoid lying down immediately after eating.
  • Get fresh air regularly.
  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
  • Slow down your eating pace.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking water with meals.

Always report any side effects to your doctor, who can provide personalized recommendations based on your health history and goals. You may also need to temporarily lower your dose or explore alternative treatments.

How long does it take for the side effects to go away?

Common side effects usually subside within a few weeks of starting the medication. If symptoms persist beyond this period, consult your doctor. 

To help your body adjust and minimize side effects like nausea, your doctor may start you on a low dose and gradually increase it.

If side effects from higher doses become too difficult to manage, your healthcare provider might lower your dose or discontinue the medication. 

Most side effects resolve within a week or two after stopping the drug, and it is nearly eliminated from your body within about a month.

Is Rybelsus safe for long-term use?

Yes, the medicine is safe for long-term use in managing blood sugar levels for people with type 2 diabetes. It is most effective when combined with diet, exercise, and sometimes insulin therapy.

Can Rybelsus affect your heart? 

Rybelsus can improve heart health. 

It has been shown to reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular causes in people with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease, according to a randomized controlled trial.

It may also be prescribed for people with both type 2 diabetes and heart disease to support heart health, even if they do not have issues with insulin resistance or blood sugar levels.

Is Rybelsus hard on the kidneys?

Kidney problems are a potential severe side effect of this medication. 

There have been reports of acute kidney injury and worsening chronic kidney failure, sometimes requiring hemodialysis, in people taking medications containing semaglutide. 

This risk is particularly concerning for those with diabetes, as they are already at higher risk for chronic kidney disease (CKD). 

However, some kidney complications have also been reported in people without pre-existing kidney disease. If you have concerns about how these pills may affect your kidneys, consult your doctor.

Can you drink coffee while taking Rybelsus?

Yes, you can drink coffee while taking Rybelsus. 

However, it’s recommended to take it on an empty stomach with no more than four ounces of water. 

Wait about 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything else to ensure proper absorption. After this period, you can enjoy your coffee.

Learn more in Everything You Need to Know About Rybelsus. Did you find this article helpful? Click Yes or No below to let us know!