Rybelsus is an innovative drug belonging to the group of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It mimics the action of the naturally occurring hormone GLP-1, which is produced in the intestines and plays a key role in regulating appetite, blood sugar, and metabolism.

The mechanism of action of Rybelsus is multifaceted and is as follows:

• Appetite suppression: The drug affects the hunger and satiety centers in the brain, reducing food cravings and increasing feelings of fullness. This helps control portions and avoid overeating.
• Slow Gastric Emptying: Rybelsus slows the rate at which food passes through the gastrointestinal tract, which promotes a longer feeling of fullness and reduces the frequency of meals.
• Improved insulin sensitivity: The drug helps the body metabolize glucose more efficiently, reducing the risk of developing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. This is especially important for overweight people who often experience carbohydrate metabolism disorders.
• Increased Energy Expenditure: Some research suggests that Rybelsus may slightly increase basal metabolic rate, helping you burn calories more efficiently at rest.

Thanks to this holistic effect on the body, Rybelsus helps patients significantly reduce weight and improve metabolic health.

Features of applicationRybelsus should not be used in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus or for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis. Rybelsus is not an insulin substitute. Diabetic ketoacidosis has been reported in insulin-dependent patients who began treatment with a GLP-1 receptor agonist and therefore had their insulin discontinued or their dose rapidly reduced.

Use During Pregnancy or Breastfeeding

There is limited data on the effects of Rybelsus in pregnant women, and therefore, its use during pregnancy is not recommended. Rybelsus should also be avoided during breastfeeding.

Children

The safety and effectiveness of Rybelsus in children and adolescents under the age of 18 have not been established, and there is no available data.

Impact on the Ability to Drive and Operate Machinery
Rybelsus does not impair the ability to drive vehicles or operate machinery. However, when used in combination with sulfonylurea or insulin, patients should be cautious as there is a risk of developing hypoglycemia, which can affect their ability to perform these activities safely.

Overdose
In clinical trials, there were reports of single doses and weekly doses of Rybelsus up to 4 mg resulting primarily in nausea. All affected patients recovered without complications. There is no specific antidote for Rybelsus overdose. In the event of an overdose, supportive care should be administered based on the patient's clinical signs and symptoms. Given Rybelsus' long half-life of about one week, extended treatment may be necessary to manage symptoms.

Side effects
Like any medicine, Rybelsus may cause side effects. The most common ones are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and low blood sugar. These side effects are usually mild or moderate and go away over time. However, in some cases, they can be serious and require medical attention. For example, Rybelsus can cause an allergic reaction or inflammation of the pancreas, kidney or thyroid dysfunction, depression, or apathy. However, whether these effects are the result of the drug or due to the presence of concomitant diseases is not known for certain.

Interaction with other drugs and other types of interactions

Rybelsus slows gastric emptying and may influence the rate of absorption of concomitant oral medications. Rybelsus should be used with caution in patients receiving oral medications that require rapid absorption from the gastrointestinal tract.