Ozempic vs Rybelsus: Comparing Two GLP-1 Medications

What are Ozempic and Rybelsus?

Ozempic (semaglutide) and Rybelsus (oral semaglutide) are both medications that belong to the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) class. GLP-1 drugs work by mimicking the incretin hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Ozempic was approved in 2017 as a once-weekly injectable treatment for type 2 diabetes. Rybelsus is a newer medication that was approved in 2019 as the first oral GLP-1 receptor agonist pill for type 2 diabetes.

How Do They Work?

Both Ozempic and Rybelsus work by stimulating the GLP-1 receptors in the body, which leads to increased insulin production when blood sugar levels are high. This helps reduce blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.

The medications also slow digestion and increase feelings of fullness, which can lead to weight loss — an added benefit for many patients with type 2 diabetes.

Administration

One key difference is how the two medications are taken:

Ozempic is an injectable pen that is dosed once per week under the skin (subcutaneous injection).

Rybelsus is taken orally once per day as a tablet.

Efficacy and Side Effects

In clinical trials, both medications demonstrated effective reductions in HbA1c levels (a measure of blood sugar control over 2-3 months) of around 1-1.8% depending on the dosage.

The most common side effects of Ozempic and Rybelsus include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and constipation. These side effects are typical of the GLP-1 class.

Cost

One major difference is the cost of the two medications. Ozempic tends to be significantly more expensive than Rybelsus for most patients with commercial insurance plans in the United States.

Which is Better?

There is no definitive “better” medication, as response can vary based on the individual patient. Some key considerations:

• Oral Rybelsus may be preferred for patients averse to injections
• Ozempic may have a more consistent drug exposure due to weekly rather than daily dosing
• Out-of-pocket costs can make Rybelsus much more affordable for certain insurance plans

The decision of which medication to use should be made in consultation with your doctor after weighing the pros and cons for your specific situation.