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Rybelsus for weight loss: how the drug affects your weight

12/9/2025
12 min read
Rybelsus for weight loss: how the drug affects your weight

How does Rybelsus affect your appetite and weight? Get a simple explanation and find out if it's right for you. Read more at Recetas Medicas.

Sarah

Licensed doctor

Rybelsus is a prescription drug for type 2 diabetes that has also been shown to reduce appetite and increase satiety, which can lead to weight loss. The medicine contains the same active substance as Ozempic and has a similar effect, but is given as a tablet instead of a syringe.

Key points

  • Rybelsus is a prescription medicine for type 2 diabetes
  • Sometimes also prescribed for weight loss
  • Contains the same active substance as Ozempic (semaglutide), but is taken as a tablet
  • Studies show that treatment with semaglutide can mean approximately 15-17% weight loss depending on the dose
  • Works best in conjunction with changes in diet and exercise

What is Rybelsus and how does it work?

Rybelsus is the first GLP-1 drug in tablet form to be approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It has also been shown to be effective for weight loss. Rybelsus contains semaglutide, the same active substance found in the injection preparations Ozempic and Wegovy. It helps to:

  • Reduce hunger and suppress appetite
  • Increase insulin secretion
  • Improve blood sugar
  • Delay gastric emptying

At Recetas Medicas, you can get medical assessment and advice about Rybelsus and other weight loss medicines, completely digitally.

How does Rybelsu's weight loss affect?

The effects of semaglutide (the active substance in Rybelsus) have shown in clinical studies remarkable results for weight loss in people with obesity. In the comprehensive STEP program series, participants achieved an average of approximately 15-17% weight loss. The result was achieved in combination with lifestyle changes.

Source: NLM (National Library of Medicine)

Who can benefit from Rybelsus?

Rybelsus is primarily intended for people with type 2 diabetes, but the drug is also prescribed for people who are overweight. A doctor always makes an individual assessment.

Rybelsus may be an option for you who:

  • Have a BMI over 30 or a BMI over 27 combined with a weight-related disease such as prediabetes, high blood pressure, elevated blood fats and sleep apnea
  • Want to avoid injections
  • Need support to get started with weight loss
  • Type 2 diabetes

Fill out our health form to find out if you meet the criteria for treatment.

When should you avoid Rybelsus?

Rybelsus is not suitable for everyone. Some people should avoid the treatment altogether, while others may need special medical assessment before use. You should not take Rybelsus if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have had or have a form of thyroid cancer (eg medullary thyroid cancer)
  • Have a hereditary disease affecting the thyroid gland (eg MEN 2 syndrome)
  • Have severe liver or kidney disease
  • Are under 18 years of age (Rybelsus is not approved for children and adolescents)

Rybeslu weight loss – with Recetas Medicas

At Recetas Medicas, you can get help with weight loss - quickly, easily and completely digitally. You fill in an online health form and a doctor makes a medical assessment. You will then start your weight loss treatment.

Recetas Medicas offers:

  • Regular follow-up
  • Advice on diet, exercise and management of possible side effects
  • Customized treatment
  • 24/7 access to your doctor
  • Prescription and prescription renewal
  • Continuous follow-up

How does Rybelsus differ from Ozempic and Wegovy?

Rybelsus contains the same active substance as both Ozempic and Wegovy (semaglutide). Rybeslus is given in tablet form, which makes it a good alternative for those who want to avoid injections. As with Ozempic and Wegovy, the best results of treatment with Rybelsus are achieved in combination with improved diet and exercise habits.

How often do you take Rybelsus?

Rybelsus is taken once a day as a tablet, which distinguishes it from other GLP-1 medicines that are taken as an injection once a week.

For best effect, the tablet should be taken:

  • On an empty stomach, immediately in the morning
  • With half a glass of water
  • At least 30 minutes before the first meal of the day

Follow the instructions given to you by your doctor, otherwise the body may absorb less of the medicine, which reduces the effect on both blood sugar and weight. Regular daily use and good compliance are therefore crucial to get the best possible results with Rybelsus.

Side effects and risks to know

Like all medicines, Rybelsus can cause side effects, especially in the gastrointestinal tract. They are usually mild and transient.

Common side effects:

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation

At Recetas Medicas, you get the support of a doctor and follow-up to manage any side effects during treatment.

The importance of lifestyle in treatment with Rybelsus

Taking a tablet daily may seem like an easy step towards weight loss, but in reality it's only part of the big picture. Rybelsus affects the body's hunger and blood sugar signals, regulates appetite and increases the feeling of satiety. But it is your daily habits that determine how well the treatment actually works in the long run. In combination with a balanced diet, exercise and good sleep, you will achieve the best possible results. With us at Recetas Medicas, you get guidance and support throughout the process.

Frequently asked questions and answers about Rybelsus for weight loss

How much weight can you lose with Rybelsus? It varies, but studies show an average of about 15-17% weight loss.

How fast does Rybelsus work? Most people see an effect after 8-12 weeks, but greater weight loss usually occurs after 3 months.

How much does Rybelsus cost? Rybelsus costs approximately SEK 1,049/month.

Is Rybelsus safe? For most people, Rybelsus is safe with proper use and medical follow-up. But like all medicines, it can have side effects.

Medical help for weight loss

Are you wondering if medical weight loss might be an option for you? Fill out our health form. With us, you always get fast, personal advice.