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Ozempic vs. Rybelsus

Published on 
February 3, 2025
Virta Team

Ozempic and Rybelsus share the same active ingredient, semaglutide, but differ in formulation and administration. Ozempic is an injectable GLP-1 agonist, while Rybelsus is an oral alternative. Both target type 2 diabetes. Ozempic achieves superior HbA1c reductions and weight loss compared to Rybelsus. Both are used off-label for weight management. Common side effects, like nausea, overlap, though Rybelsus may carry a slightly higher risk of gastrointestinal discomfort. Ozempic costs $875/month, similar to Rybelsus’s $875/month. Neither drug faces current shortages.

How Ozempic Works

Slows gastric emptying, reduces appetite, and enhances feelings of fullness, leading to lower calorie intake. It also stimulates insulin release and reduces glucagon secretion, improving blood sugar control.

Common Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.

Serious Potential Side Effects

Pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, kidney problems, and increased heart rate, thyroid cancer, anaphylaxis (or serious allergic reactions)

How Rybelsus Works

Slows gastric emptying, reduces appetite, and enhances feelings of fullness, leading to lower calorie intake. It also stimulates insulin release and reduces glucagon secretion, improving blood sugar control.

Common Side Effects

Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Serious Potential Side Effects

Pancreatitis, thyroid tumors (potential risk), gallbladder issues, kidney problems, and serious allergic reactions

Brand Name

Ozempic
Rybelsus

Generic Name

semaglutide
Semaglutide

Overview

Primarily prescribed for type 2 diabetes to improve blood sugar control. Also used for cardiovascular event risk reduction in patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease. Off-label use for weight management due to its appetite-suppressing effects.
GLP-1 receptor agonist available in tablet form, used to manage type 2 diabetes and also shown to aid in weight loss by reducing appetite.

Year Approved

2017 for weight management 2020 for cardiovascular risk reduction
2019

Category

GLP-1
GLP-1

Indicated for

Type 2 diabetes management; reducing risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease
Type 2 diabetes management

Administration type

Injectable
Oral

Also used (but not approved) for

Weight Management
Weight Management

Frequency

Once / week
Once / day

Typical dose range

0.25–2.0 mg
3–14 mg

Average cost per month

$875
$875

Availability

No current shortages
No current shortages