Rybelsus is a medication approved by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) in June 2021. It treats adults with type 2 diabetes in Singapore.

Are you living with diabetes and struggling to manage your blood sugar levels? If so, you’re not alone. According to the Ministry of Health (MOH), about one in every three Singaporeans has a lifetime risk of developing diabetes. It is a growing public health concern.

Luckily, there’s a new medication on the market that may help. It’s called Rybelsus, and it is a revolutionary medication that’s quickly gaining popularity in Singapore.

Sire is a leading medical clinic in Singapore dedicated to providing specialised solutions for common men’s health problems. We stay on top of the latest research and advancements in men’s health to ensure our 10,000+ satisfied customers always receive the best care.

In this article, we’ll explore everything about Rybelsus. This includes how it works, its benefits, and where you can get it in Singapore.

What is Rybelsus?

Doctors can prescribe Rybelsus to manage type 2 diabetes. It contains the active ingredient Semaglutide, which works by mimicking the effects of a hormone called GLP-1.

GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone in the body that stimulates the production of insulin, which helps lower blood sugar levels.

Rybelsus is available in tablet form and is taken orally once a day, with or without food. It is designed to be taken in combination with diet and exercise and may also be used in conjunction with other diabetes medications.

The history of Rybelsus and the company behind it

Are you curious about the history behind Rybelsus and the company that produces it? At Sire, we dig deep – let’s take a closer look.

Rybelsus is a relatively new medication that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved in September 2019 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

The company behind Rybelsus is Novo Nordisk, a Danish pharmaceutical company that was founded in 1923.

The company has a long history of innovation in the field of diabetes care, having introduced the world’s first insulin in 1923.

Today, Novo Nordisk is a global healthcare company with a mission to improve the lives of people with diabetes and other chronic diseases.

Novo Nordisk has a strong presence in Singapore, where it operates a production facility and employs over 1,500 people.

Why is Rybelsus “revolutionary”?

Sire revolutionised men’s health by introducing 100% discreet online consultations at the comfort of your own home, from consultation to packaging to delivery – no one else needs to know.

What about Rybelsus?

In recent years, Novo Nordisk has shifted its focus to developing more convenient and effective treatments for diabetes.

This led to the development of Rybelsus, the first and only oral GLP-1 receptor agonist for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Rybelsus belongs to the medication class of GLP-1 receptor agonists. To date, ALL other medications belonging to this class are injections.

Goodbye injections!

You do not need to inject Rybelsus. Instead, you take it as a pill, making it a more convenient option for many people who may be hesitant or uncomfortable with injections.

It improves blood sugar control and reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes.

So.. How exactly does Rybelsus work for my diabetes?

Rybelsus works by mimicking the action of the incretin hormone found in the gastrointestinal system, which helps to regulate blood sugar levels in the body.

The active ingredient in Rybelsus, Semaglutide, acts like a natural incretin hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).

GLP-1 helps to stimulate the release of insulin from the pancreas, which in turn helps to lower blood sugar levels.

Can Rybelsus help me lose weight?

In addition to its blood sugar-lowering effects, Rybelsus also helps to reduce appetite, which can aid in weight loss.

This is due to the fact that GLP-1 also acts on the hypothalamus in the brain to increase feelings of fullness and reduce feelings of hunger.

While Rybelsus is not indicated for weight loss, some people may experience weight loss as a side effect of taking the medication.

If you are looking for prescription weight loss medications, Sire can help you HERE.

Why do I need to keep my diabetes under control?

At Sire, we define masculinity holistically – it includes a healthy body and a healthy mind.

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people globally. In Singapore, studies reveal that the majority of adults with diabetes were men.

Moreover, men are more prone to complications arising from diabetes than women.

Prevention of complications

High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves throughout the body, leading to a range of problems.

For instance, diabetes can cause nerve damage in the feet and legs, leading to foot ulcers and infections.

It can also damage the blood vessels in the eyes, causing vision problems and, in some cases, blindness.

Controlling diabetes helps reduce the risk of developing these complications, thereby safeguarding men’s overall health.

Management of erectile dysfunction (ED)

Why can diabetes result in ED?

Men with diabetes face an increased risk of developing ED, a condition that makes it difficult to get or maintain an erection. This is due to high blood sugar levels damaging blood vessels and nerves that are essential for healthy sexual function.

Studies suggest that the prevalence of ED in men with diabetes ranges from 35-75%.

However, by controlling diabetes, men can reduce the risk of developing ED and improve their overall sexual health.

If you are struggling with ED, you are not alone. Sire is a MOH-licensed telemedicine clinic that offers 100% discreet consultation – we bring you holistic and effective solutions.

Maintenance of testosterone levels

Men with diabetes are also more susceptible to developing low testosterone levels, leading to various symptoms such as fatigue, decreased sex drive, and loss of muscle mass.

By controlling diabetes, men can maintain healthy testosterone levels, avoiding these symptoms.

At Sire, you can find out more about our Testosterone Support here.

Reduction in the risk of heart disease

Men with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing heart disease, which is one of the leading causes of death globally.

High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of plaque buildup, leading to heart attacks and strokes.

Controlling diabetes helps reduce the risk of developing heart disease, protecting men’s overall cardiovascular health.

How can Rybelsus help me?

Rybelsus has several benefits for people with type 2 diabetes. These include:

Lowering blood sugar levels

By mimicking the effects of GLP-1, Rybelsus can help to lower blood sugar levels and improve glycemic control.

Clinical studies demonstrated that Rybelsus, along with diet and exercise, reduces glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels by approximately 1.2-1.4 percentage points depending on dosage.

Weight loss

While not indicated for weight loss, Rybelsus has been shown to help people lose some weight. This is because it works by suppressing appetite and promotes the feeling of fullness – this results in a reduction in food intake.

Clinical studies demonstrated that in diabetic patients treated with Rybelsus, a modest weight loss of 2-3 kg was seen.

Sire can help you kick start your weight management journey HERE.

Convenience

As a once-daily oral pill, Rybelsus is more convenient than many other diabetes medications, which need to be injected.

This reduces the risk of injection site reactions like pain and swelling as well.

At Sire, we believe in the effective management of various men’s health issues – managing your diabetes effectively takes you one step close to achieving all your goals.

Are there any side effects of Rybelsus I should be concerned about?

While Rybelsus is generally considered safe and effective, it is still a prescription-only medication and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

What are the common side effects of Rybelsus?

Like any medication, Rybelsus can cause side effects. The most common side effects of Rybelsus include nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, and stomach pain.

These side effects are usually mild to moderate and go away on their own after a few days or weeks.

To minimise the risk of these side effects, it is recommended that you start with a low dose of Rybelsus and the dosage be gradually increased over time.

Always speak to your doctor about any side effect that bothers you or does not go away. Do not adjust the medication on your own unless under the instructions of your healthcare provider.

How about any severe side effects I should be aware of?

In rare cases, Rybelsus can cause more serious side effects such as pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, kidney problems, and allergic reactions.

It is important to speak with your doctor right away if you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent nausea or vomiting, or difficulty urinating.

How do I take Rybelsus?

Taking Rybelsus is relatively easy and straightforward.

It is recommended to take the once-daily tablet on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before the first food, beverage or other oral medications of the day with a small glass of plain water. This is to minimise the possible gastrointestinal side effects it can cause.

It is important that the tablets be swallowed whole and should not be cut, crushed or chewed.

It is important to follow the instructions of your doctor or pharmacist carefully to ensure the best results.

Can I take Rybelsus with other medications?

It is also important to note that Rybelsus can interact with other medications, including certain antibiotics and oral contraceptives.

Before taking Rybelsus, you should inform your healthcare provider of all the medications you are currently taking to avoid any potential drug interactions.

Sire offers you the most discreet and direct access to any medical information you require.
Ask us anonymously today!

Is Rybelsus available in Singapore?

Rybelsus is available in 3 mg, 7 mg and 14 mg tablets.

They are all available in Singapore with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

A box of 30 tablets of Rybelsus varies from SGD 200-500 depending on the dosage prescribed.

If you’re interested in trying Rybelsus, you’ll need to speak to your doctor. They’ll be able to determine whether Rybelsus is a suitable medication for you and can provide you with a prescription.

Rybelsus is a revolutionary medication that’s changing the way people manage their type 2 diabetes in Singapore. With its convenient once-daily pill form, potential for weight loss, and fewer side effects than other diabetes medications, it is becoming a popular choice for many.

Always speak with your healthcare provider if you have any questions about Rybelsus to manage your diabetes.

What are the similarities and differences between Rybelsus, Ozempic and Wegovy? A Comparison of the Semaglutide Family

Sire stays on top of the latest medical advances relating to men’s health. We believe in providing you comprehensive information and empowering you with knowledge to make an informed decision.

The active ingredient in Rybelsus – Semaglutide – can be found in two other medications: Ozempic and Wegovy. Here we highlight the similarities and differences between them.

Do Rybelsus, Ozempic and Wegovy work in the same way? What is their mechanism of action?

The Semaglutide family of medications: Rybelsus, Ozempic and Wegovy work by mimicking the action of the incretin hormone found in the gastrointestinal system, which helps to regulate blood sugar levels in the body.

Semaglutide acts like a natural incretin hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).

GLP-1 helps to stimulate the release of insulin from the pancreas, which in turn helps to lower blood sugar levels.

In addition to its blood sugar-lowering effects, Semaglutide also helps to reduce appetite, which can aid in weight loss.

This is due to the fact that GLP-1 also acts on the hypothalamus in the brain to increase feelings of fullness and reduce feelings of hunger.

Same active ingredient, different uses

Rybelsus, Ozempic and Wegovy are all developed by the same company – Novo Nordisk.

Rybelsus and Ozempic are approved by the US FDA for the treatment of type 2 diabetes while Wegovy is approved by the US FDA for chronic weight management in patients who have a BMI of 30 or more and those with a lower BMI of 27 or more, with at least one weight-related medical problem (such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol).

Why is there a controversy with Semaglutide and weight loss? What is the big deal about it?

Since the approval of Wegovy for weight loss in 2021, Hollywood celebrities, social media influencers and even billionaire tech mogul Elon Musk have reportedly used Wegovy to get rid of unwanted weight.

Its popularity resulted in shortages in the supply of Wegovy.

Ozempic was quickly being pushed to be prescribed off-label for weight loss, although it is not labelled for it. This resulted in a shortage of Ozempic as well in the United States, Australia and Europe. Diabetic uses of Ozempic in these countries went scrambling in search of the supply or turn to other alternatives.

Closer to home, Singapore’s HSA reported that four listings of Ozempic and Wegovy have to be removed from sellers on local e-commerce platforms since the start of 2023.

In Singapore, Rybelsus, Ozempic and Wegovy can only be supplied upon a valid prescription.

Although effective, Wegovy is not a weight loss miracle. Weight regain can be expected after discontinuation of the medication.

Furthermore, the long-term safety of the Semaglutide family of medications have not been fully established as the majority of clinical trials are less than four years in duration.

Looking for safe and effective prescription medications for weight loss? Sire can help HERE.

Are Rybelsus, Ozempic and Wegovy taken the same way?

While Rybelsus is a daily oral medication, both Ozempic and Wegovy are weekly injectable medications.

Ozempic is available in 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg and 1 mg/dose solution for injection in a pre-filled pen.

Wegovy is also available in the same dosage 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg and 1 mg/dose solution for injection in a pre-filled pen. A higher dosage is also available of 1.7 mg and 2.4/dose solution for injection is also available as a higher dose has been shown to be effective for weight management.

Ozempic and Wegovy are self-administered by subcutaneous injection into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm at any time of day on the same day each week, with or without food.

Rybelsus, Ozempic and Wegovy are similar in costs for a month’s worth of supply – it ranges from SGD 300-500, depending on the dosage and medication prescribed.

Overall, while there are some differences between Rybelsus, Ozempic, and Wegovy, they are all effective medications. It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine which medication is best for your specific needs and to closely monitor for any potential side effects.

At Sire, we answer all your burning questions about Rybelsus, Ozempic and Wegovy – the Semaglutide Family

Q: Can Rybelsus or Ozempic or Wegovy be used in conjunction with other diabetes medications?

A: Yes, they can be used in combination with other diabetes medications, such as metformin or insulin. However, it is important to consult your healthcare provider before taking them with other medications.

Q: Is Rybelsus or Ozempic or Wegovy suitable for people with Type 1 diabetes?

A: No, Rybelsus and Ozempic are only approved for use in people with Type 2 diabetes in Singapore. Wegovy is only approved for chronic weight management in people with obesity or overweight in the presence of at least one weight-related medical problem.

Q: Can we take Rybelsus or Ozempic or Wegovy during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

A: Not recommended to take the Semaglutide family of medications during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is important to speak to your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before taking these medications.

Q: How long does it take for Rybelsus and Ozempic to start working for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes?

A: Rybelsus and Ozempic can start to lower blood sugar levels within the first week of treatment, but it may take up to 12 weeks to see the full effect. It is important to closely monitor your blood sugar levels according to your doctor’s instructions.

Q: How long does it take for Wegovy to start working for chronic weight management?

A: Weight loss may begin within the first 4 weeks of treatment with Wegovy. You may not see the full effects of treatment for several months or longer. Discuss with your healthcare provider the benefits and risks of this medication before taking it.

Q: Is Rybelsus effective for weight loss?

A: Rybelsus is not really for weight loss. It remains a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes.

While not indicated for weight loss, Rybelsus has shown to help people lose some weight. This is because it works by suppressing appetite and promotes the feeling of fullness – this results in a reduction in food intake.

Q: Why are Rybelsus, Ozempic and Wegovy so expensive in Singapore?

A: Rybelsus, Ozempic, and Wegovy are all relatively new medications. As such, they are currently only available as brand-name drugs and do not yet have generic versions available.

This means that they can be more expensive than other medications that have been on the market for longer and have generic versions available.

However, it is worth noting that these medications can also be highly effective in treating diabetes and obesity, and may be able to improve the overall health and quality of life of those who take them. For this reason, it is important to discuss the cost and potential benefits of these medications with a healthcare provider.

At Sire, we are here to help get these conversations going.

Q: Why can Ozempic we use “off-label” for weight loss?

Using medication off label implies that you are taking the medication in a way not approved by regulatory authorities.

Doctors can prescribe medication off-label. They use their judgement to decide whether patients need such off-label treatment. Doctors remain obliged to inform their patient about risks, side effects and to put their patients under close medical supervision.

Q: What are the common side effects of Ozempic and Wegovy?

A: Yes, similar to Rybelsus, common side effects of Ozempic and Wegovy include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation. It is important to discuss any potential side effects with your healthcare provider.

Q: I heard Semaglutide can cause cancer! Is this true?

A: Studies have found Semaglutide to cause thyroid C-cell tumours in rodents during animal studies of the medication. It is currently unknown if it has the same effect in humans.

People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should not take Rybelsus, Ozempic and Wegovy.

If you have a history of these conditions, or if you experience any symptoms of thyroid cancer such as a lump or swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing, or hoarseness, you should inform your healthcare provider immediately.

In conclusion, the medications in the Semaglutide family:Rybelsus, Ozempic, and Wegovy, are effective options for managing type 2 diabetes and weight loss (only for Wegovy).

They work by regulating blood sugar levels, reducing appetite, and promoting feelings of fullness. While they may have similar mechanisms of action, there are differences in dosing, administration, and indications that you should be aware of.As with any medication, there are potential side effects and precautions to consider, including the risk of thyroid C-cell tumours with Semaglutide. It is important to discuss the benefits and risks of each medication with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for you.