Ozempic vs. Rybelsus: Which is the best option for weight loss?

What you’ll learn:

• Ozempic and Rybelsus are GLP-1 receptor agonist medications that contain the same active ingredient, semaglutide.
• Ozempic is taken as a weekly injection, while Rybelsus is a daily pill you take by mouth.
• Both medications can help you lose weight when prescribed off-label by a doctor or clinician. 

If diet and exercise have yet to lead to the weight loss results you desire, you might wonder if there are other options. Well, guess what? There are!

Ozempic and Rybelsus are two medications that are making a real difference for people just like you. Both are FDA-approved for diabetes but can be prescribed off-label for weight loss. They are both based on this amazing ingredient called semaglutide, which works by mimicking a natural hormone in your body called GLP-1. This hormone helps you feel full and satisfied, making it easier to lose weight.

While Ozempic and Rebelsus share the same active ingredient, they differ in how they’re taken. Rybelsus is a daily pill you swallow, while Ozempic is a weekly injection. 

So which one will be better for you? There’s more to each of these medications than how they’re taken, but if needles aren’t your thing, Rybelsus could be a good option. It’s the first and only oral medication of its kind, so you can skip the injections and just take a simple pill each day. 

Ultimately, your doctor will examine your health, lifestyle, and goals to determine the best fit. If you qualify for Noom Med, a qualified clinician will help you find your perfect match. We’ll consider all the bits and pieces that make you, well, you!

First, let’s talk about the similarities and differences between Ozempic and Rybelsus in more detail.

Ozempic vs. Rybelsus: How do they work?

Again, Ozempic and Rybelsus are both made from the same active ingredient, semaglutide. But what is that? Semagutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which means it mimics a hormone your body makes called GLP-1 that helps you feel full and satisfied. 

Semaglutide targets receptors in your brain and stomach that control your appetite. By flipping these switches, semaglutide helps regulate how much you eat and how often you feel hungry. It also slows down how quickly your stomach empties, which will make you feel fuller longer. This freedom from excess hunger and cravings allows you to stick to a healthy eating plan like the one we stand by at Noom.

As we mentioned, they do this in different ways. Ozempic is absorbed into your body through a once-weekly injection; Rybelsus is taken once a day.

In a nutshell, Ozempic and Rybelsus work the same way; they just take different paths to get there. 

Ozempic vs. Rybelsus: Which is better for weight loss?

Alright, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty. When we’re thinking about weight loss, we want to know which option is going to give us the best results. So, how do Ozempic and Rybelsus compare when it comes to shedding those pounds?

Well, based on the results of clinical trials:

• Oral semaglutide (Rybelsus): Over the course of 68 weeks, people who took a 14 mg daily dose experienced an average weight loss of 10 pounds. For a 25 mg daily dose, they lost an average of 15 pounds. (Note: The 25 mg dose is not yet FDA-approved)
• Injectable semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy): This group also saw great results, with the average weight loss at 40 weeks ranging from around 7 to 14 pounds. 

So, both medications can lead to significant weight loss. But you’ll likely notice that oral semaglutide requires higher doses of 14 mg or 25 mg daily, while injectable semaglutide achieves similar results with just .5 to 2 mg weekly.

This is because when you inject semaglutide, more of the medication gets into your system compared to when you swallow a pill. In fact, only about 0.4-1% of oral semaglutide actually makes it into your system! This means Rybelsus is still effective for weight loss, but your doctor will prescribe a higher dose to achieve results similar to those of Ozempic. It also means that you shouldn’t experience greater side effects even though the amount of semaglutide is higher with Ryblesus.

Remember, it’s not just about the numbers on the scale. Your current health status, lifestyle, preferences, and budget all matter. That’s where Noom Med comes in handy. If you qualify for Noom Med, we offer one-on-one video calls with a healthcare provider to create a plan that’s tailored just for you. They’ll coordinate access to the medication that’s right for you and help you figure out insurance coverage.

Ozempic vs. Rybelsus: Which is more convenient?

The convenience of Ozempic or Rybelsus depends on your lifestyle.

Rybelsus is ideal for those with a consistent morning routine who prefer to avoid weekly injections. After waking up, you must take it on an empty stomach with no more than four ounces of water. You’ll need to wait at least 30 minutes before consuming any other food, drink, or medication—a perfect opportunity for a brisk morning walk! 

Ozempic might be more convenient for those who prefer a once-weekly medication. You use a pre-filled pen to inject it under your skin on your chosen day of the week. Ozempic requires refrigeration, which could be inconvenient for some.

Ultimately, you and your doctor can decide which option is best for you.

Ozempic vs. Rybelsus: Who can take them?

Both medications are approved for people with type 2 diabetes, but they can also be prescribed off-label for weight loss. 

To get a prescription for Ozempic or Rybelsus  for weight management, you must meet the following criteria:

• Have a BMI of ≥30.

or

• Have a BMI of ≥27 with at least one weight-related medical condition.

Your doctor will also want to see that traditional diet and exercise changes haven’t worked well for you in the past.  

Ozempic vs. Rybelsus: Cost

Ozempic and Rybelsus share a similar price tag: about $969 per month before insurance. That can feel like a hefty chunk of change.

They will likely not be covered under insurance for weight loss purposes, but it’s always worth contacting your representative. If you qualify for Noom Med, your clinician will find the right medication and then coordinate any benefits.  

Ozempic vs. Rybelsus: Side effects

Okay, let’s be honest. No medication is perfect. While Ozempic and Rybelsus can be super helpful, they can also have some side effects. But don’t worry—most of them are usually mild and tend to go away as your body gets used to the medication.

Here’s a quick rundown of the most common side effects you might experience:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Constipation
• Headache

Remember, everyone’s body is different, so you might not experience all of these side effects or experience them differently than someone else. The good news is that most people find these side effects manageable and they often improve over time. 

If you experience any side effects that are concerning, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor. They can offer advice on managing them or adjusting your medication if needed.

How Noom can help you manage side effects

Again, most people experience mild to moderate side effects that they can handle. Here are some tips for managing common issues:

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Think grazing, not gorging. Smaller meals are easier on your stomach and can help prevent nausea, especially with semaglutide treatment.
• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: Water is your friend! Staying hydrated can help ease discomfort.
• Follow the directions: It may sound obvious, but taking your medication exactly as prescribed can make a big difference. 
• Start low and go slow: Your doctor will start you on a lower dose and gradually increase it. This gives your body time to adjust and can help minimize side effects.
• Get support: If you qualify, Noom Med offers personalized care to help you find the right approach for managing side effects and maximizing your weight loss journey. If you’ve already been prescribed Ozempic or Rybelsus, our GLP-1 Companion is a great resource for managing side effects and staying on track. 

Remember, what works for one person might not work for another. We’re here to help you find what works best for you.

Ozempic vs. Rybelsus: Important considerations and warnings

It’s important to be aware of some potentially serious health conditions that have been reported with these medications. Since both Ozempic and Rybelsus contain the same active ingredient (semaglutide) but in different forms and dosages, they share similar risks. Get medical help immediately if you experience any of these symptoms: 

• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) – Signs include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Kidney problems – Your doctor should assess any changes in urine frequency or amount, or swelling in your feet or ankles.
• Changes in vision (for people with diabetic retinopathy) – See a doctor if you notice sudden changes in vision, blurred vision, floaters, or dark spots.
• Allergic reactions – Symptoms include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and a rash or hives.
• Gallbladder problems – Report any abdominal pain, fever, or yellowing of the skin and eyes to a doctor immediately.
• Thyroid tumors (increased risk observed in animal studies) – Be alert for a lump or swelling in the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath.

Remember, these are rare, but it’s important to be informed. We recommend checking out the official Ozempic and Rybelsus websites for detailed safety information. And, of course, always talk to your doctor about any concerns you have before starting a new medication. They’ll be able to assess your individual risk factors and help you make the best decision for your health.

At Noom Med, we take your safety seriously. That’s why our personalized approach includes a thorough review of your medical history and a discussion of any potential risks or concerns you might have.

Other GLP-1 medications to ask your doctor about

Are you curious about other medications that work similarly to Ozempic and Rybelsus? You’ve got options! There are several other GLP-1 receptor agonists out there that might be worth discussing with your doctor:

Medication	Active ingredient	Approx. monthly cost	How it’s taken	What it’s prescribed for
Wegovy	Semaglutide	$1,350	Weekly Injection	Approved for weight loss in those with a BMI of 30+ or those with a BMI of 27+ with weight-related conditions.
Mounjaro	Tirzepatide	$1,070	Weekly Injection	Type 2 diabetes management (FDA-approved), weight loss (off-label)
Zepbound	Tirzepatide	$1,060	Weekly Injection	Approved for chronic weight management in those with a BMI of 30+ or those with a BMI of 27+ with weight-related conditions.
Saxenda	Liraglutide	$1,350	Daily Injection	Approved for weight loss in those with a BMI of 30+ or those with a BMI of 27+ with weight-related conditions.
Victoza	Liraglutide	$800-$1,400	Daily Injection	Type 2 diabetes management (FDA-approved), weight loss (off-label)
Trulicity	Dulaglutide	$900-$1,500	Weekly Injection	Type 2 diabetes management (FDA-approved), weight loss (off-label)

Note: Costs can vary depending on insurance coverage and pharmacy pricing. 

Working with your doctor to find the one that’s right for you is important. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option.

How to find the best weight loss medication

Now for the million-dollar question: Which medication is your perfect match?

That really depends on your unique needs and preferences. Both Ozempic and Rybelsus can be effective, and their shared ingredient, semaglutide, has been shown to help people lose weight.

We’ve got your back no matter which medication you and your doctor decide is the right fit for you. Noom can help you:

• Develop sustainable habits: We’ll guide you towards healthy choices you can stick with for the long haul.
• Understand your eating behaviors: We’ll help you identify your triggers and habits so you can make lasting changes.
• Feel good inside and out: It’s not just about the numbers on the scale; it’s about feeling your best.

In fact, a study showed that people who paired an earlier GLP-1 medication with Noom’s program reported losing 39% more weight on average compared to those who used just the medication. It’s definitely a winning combo!

The bottom line? With Noom, you’re getting a partner who is invested in your long-term health and well-being. You’re not just losing weight; you’re gaining a whole new outlook on a healthier, happier you.

Note: Ozempic, Rybelsus, Mounjaro, Victoza, and Trulicity are not FDA-approved to treat obesity or for weight loss.