Taking Rybelsus? Here’s what you need to know about switching to the Ozempic pill
If you’re currently taking Rybelsus (semaglutide), you may have heard that it’s being phased out. The manufacturer is transitioning to a newer oral formulation of semaglutide, referred to as the Ozempic pill.
Both medications contain the same active ingredient, but there are some important things to keep in mind when switching. Below, GoodRx, a platform for medication savings, explains what you need to know to make the transition as smooth as possible.
Key takeaways:
- Rybelsus (semaglutide) is being phased out and replaced by a reformulated version, often called the Ozempic pill.
- Both medications contain semaglutide. But the newer Ozempic pill is formulated to improve absorption, so it contains lower amounts of semaglutide than Rybelsus.
- If you’ve been prescribed Rybelsus, talk to your prescriber about switching to the Ozempic pill, as appropriate. They can make sure you’re taking the right dose.
Why is Rybelsus being phased out?
Rybelsus is an oral glucagonlike peptide-1 (GLP-1) medication for Type 2 diabetes. It’s being phased out as the manufacturer introduces a newer oral semaglutide formulation under the Ozempic brand name. This updated version had previously been referred to as the R2 formulation of Rybelsus.
As part of this transition, the Ozempic brand is now available in two formulations — the original injectable version and the newer oral tablet. The manufacturer is shifting focus to this updated formulation rather than continuing Rybelsus.
What is the Ozempic pill?
The Ozempic pill is a newer oral version of semaglutide, the same active ingredient found in Rybelsus tablets and Ozempic injections. The main difference is how it’s formulated. The Ozempic pill is designed to improve absorption, which means it can provide a similar effect at a lower dose than Rybelsus.
It’s also smaller in size than Rybelsus tablets, which may make it easier for some people to swallow.
What to know when switching from Rybelsus to the Ozempic pill
If you’re currently taking Rybelsus, it’s recommended to talk to your prescriber about switching to the Ozempic pill, as appropriate. Switching from one to the other is usually straightforward, but there are a few key things to keep in mind.
You’ll need a new prescription
You won’t be able to automatically switch from Rybelsus to the Ozempic pill. Your prescriber will need to write a new prescription for the updated medication. They’ll also guide you on when to start the new medication and how to transition safely.
Your dose will change
Even though both medications contain semaglutide, the amount of active ingredient isn’t the same. Because the newer formulation is absorbed differently, it uses lower amounts of the medication.
You generally won’t switch to the Ozempic pill if you’re within the first 30 days of starting Rybelsus (the 3 mg starting dose). But after that — or if you’re already taking the 7 mg or 14 mg dose — your prescriber may switch you to a comparable Ozempic pill dose.
Here’s how the doses typically compare:
Your prescriber will confirm the right dose for you and may adjust it over time based on how you respond.
Rybelsus and Ozempic pills are taken the same way
Rybelsus and Ozempic pills have the same dosage instructions, which are important for the medication to work properly.
- Take your dose first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
- Take it with no more than 4 ounces of plain water.
- Wait at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything else or taking other medications.
Following these instructions closely helps ensure your body absorbs the medication as intended. Taking it with food, beverages other than water, or other medications can make it not work as well.
Side effects are usually similar
Because both medications contain semaglutide, they tend to have similar side effects. The most common include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Stomach upset
These side effects are usually more noticeable when starting treatment or increasing your dose and often improve over time. But in the meantime, the following tips can help make them more manageable:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
- Avoid high-fat or greasy foods.
- Drink enough fluids throughout the day.
- Eat slowly and stop when you feel full.
If any side effects become difficult to tolerate, your prescriber may adjust your dose or recommend ways to help you stay on treatment.
How to save on the Ozempic pill
If you’re switching to the Ozempic pill, you may be concerned about cost. There may be several ways to lower your out-of-pocket cost.
- Save with a copay card. If you have commercial insurance, you may be able to pay as little as $25 for up to a three-month supply with the card.
- Save with home delivery. Access the Ozempic pill starting at $149 per month and get it delivered to your home through NovoCare Pharmacy.
The bottom line
Rybelsus (oral semaglutide) is being phased out as the manufacturer transitions to a newer formulation, often referred to as the Ozempic pill. Both medications contain the same active ingredient, but differences in the formulation mean your dose will change — even though the way you take the medication stays the same.
Switching is usually straightforward. But it’s best to work with your prescriber to make sure you’re starting the right dose and following proper instructions. If you have questions about side effects, cost, or how to take your medication, your healthcare team can help guide you through the transition.
This story was produced by GoodRx and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
