Oral Semaglutide (Rybelsus)

Oral semaglutide, sold as Rybelsus, is a once-daily tablet form of a GLP-1 medicine that lowers appetite and improves blood sugar. It works in a similar way to the injectable version but is taken by mouth on an empty stomach with a small amount of water.

Oral semaglutide is the first orally administered GLP-1 receptor agonist, formulated with the absorption enhancer SNAC (salcaprozate sodium) to permit gastric uptake. It reduces appetite and slows gastric emptying, improving glycaemic control and supporting weight loss, although at lower maximum doses than subcutaneous semaglutide 2.4 mg.

An oral GLP-1 option gives patients who are uncomfortable with injections a way to access this class of medication. Dr Joseph Wang can advise whether oral or injectable therapy better fits your goals and medical history.