Rybelsus® prescription available online

Type 2 diabetes

The FDA has provided approval for the use of Rybelsus® in patients who have been diagnosed with type 2 . With this said, Rybelsus® is usually not a first-line treatment option for people with this condition. Instead, it may be an excellent alternative to other medications generally considered the first line of defense against type 2 diabetes. If the patient has difficulty controlling their sugar levels with first-line medications such as metformin, a physician may consider adding Rybelsus® as an additional medication to their treatment plan.

Our doctors craft tailored solutions for each patient. While Rybelsus® (semaglutide) stands out as a top-tier choice, we believe in empowering our patients to select the treatment that best aligns with their unique health journey. Our physicians, mindful of availability and individual requirements, may recommend or prescribe a different GLP-1 for type 2 diabetes management. Explore these GLP-1 options below:

• Mounjaro® (tirzepatide): This unique medication has dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor activity. This innovative approach may resonate with patients looking for a holistic strategy for managing their diabetes.

• Ozempic® (semaglutide): Ozempic® remains a standout with its once-weekly injectable format, delivering reliability and efficiency in blood sugar management. Its ability to reduce cardiovascular risk adds another layer of appeal.

• Semaglutide: Due to shortages, compounded semaglutide may be prescribed as an alternative to branded Ozempic® as long as it remains on the FDA drug shortages list. Although compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved, our pharmacy provider complies with pertinent federal and state laws and FDA regulations.*

• Trulicity® (dulaglutide): Trulicity® also comes with a pre-filled disposable pen for its once-weekly injection, ideal for those who want ease of use without compromising consistent blood sugar control.

• Victoza® (liraglutide): This daily injectable provides a trusted solution for diabetes management.

• Bydureon® (exenatide): Bydureon® has an extended-release formulation, requiring just one weekly injection.

For patients with insulin resistance or a semaglutide allergy, your doctor may suggest alternatives to GLP-1 anti-diabetic medications. Individuals with insulin resistance and difficult-to-control sugars may also receive a different medication as part of their treatment plan, such as metformin or NovoLog (insulin aspart). For patients with a semaglutide allergy, medications such as Jardiance (empagliflozin) or Glucotrol (glipizide) may be considered.

*As of 1/4/2024, availability for compounded semaglutide is currently limited to residents in the following states: AZ, CA, CO, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, KS, MA, MD, ME, MO, MT, ND, NE, NH, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, TN, TX, UT, WA, WY.

The side effects of Rybelsus® are typically mild. Most Rybelsus® side effects are associated with the digestive tract. Rybelsus® has some common side effects. They may include:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Constipation

• Pain in the abdomen

• Diarrhea

• A reduction in appetite

It is common for people to experience nausea, as well as constipation, when they first start the medication. These side effects of Rybelsus® will often reemerge when the patient has a change in the dose they take.

Other side effects of Rybelsus®, which are less common but might be more severe, can consist of a rapid heartbeat, gallbladder problems, and even a severe allergic reaction. Here we look at the more serious side effects of Rybelsus®:

• Thyroid problems: There is a rare risk of problems developing with the Thyroid gland. This gland plays a vital role in metabolism and several other bodily functions. Some reports of Thyroid tumors have been noted among individuals who take Rybelsus®. The manufacturer has also warned about a risk of cancerous tumors on the Thyroid gland. Due to the risk of thyroid cancer, it is recommended not to take Rybelsus® for patients with a personal or family history of thyroid cancer. 

• Pancreatitis: Individuals also risk experiencing inflammation in their pancreas while they take Rybelsus®. This condition may lead to severe pain that occurs in the abdomen. The pain will not go away. Some people may vomit while they experience the pain symptoms.  This is a potentially life-threatening side effect. If you have symptoms of pancreatitis, it is recommended to seek medical help immediately and go to the nearest emergency room for medical care.

• Hypoglycemia: Due to the reduction in blood glucose and the increase in insulin, some patients may also experience low blood sugar when they use Rybelsus® with other medicines that can also cause low blood sugars, such as insulin or sulfonylureas. In this case, the patient is at risk of severe side effects if there is a significant drop in blood sugar levels. Some signs include dizziness, changes in mood, irritability, weakness, and a headache. Severe weakness, a very fast heartbeat, and anxiety can also happen. It is possible to experience vision problems related to low blood sugar, too. These vision problems related to hypoglycemia usually present themselves as blurred vision.

• Kidney failure: There is also a slight risk of kidney failure when using Rybelsus® daily. The risk of kidney failure is much higher among individuals who already have existing problems with their kidneys. These complications may cause dehydration, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. 

• Gallbladder side effects: There are also some rare cases where Rybelsus® causes problems with the gallbladder. Upper abdomen pain, stool that has a clay color, a fever, and signs of jaundice can signal the presence of gallbladder issues. 

• Allergic reaction: There is also a risk of an allergic reaction when a patient uses Rybelsus®. A severe allergic reaction can sometimes be fatal if the patient does not receive treatment promptly. Swelling in the mouth, such as the tongue, lips, and face, are signs of allergic reactions. An allergic reaction can also make breathing difficult, cause a rapid heartbeat, and make the person feel dizzy. Skin rashes are also common when an allergic reaction occurs. Individuals should be aware of allergic reaction symptoms when using these prescription drugs. Severe allergic reactions should be reported to the emergency department.

You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects or develop other new or concerning symptoms. Use of Rybelsus® in young children under age 18 is not advised as it is not FDA-approved or studied in pediatric populations.