Semaglutide Oral Route is an anti-diabetic medication used to treat type 2 diabetes and comes in the brand names Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus. Another similar medication to semaglutide is Tirzepatide, which is a pharmaceutical drug sold under the brand name Mounjaro. Both are usually taken once a week through injection.
Purpose and Use of Semaglutide for High Blood Sugar
Semaglutide works by controlling blood sugar and insulin levels. Patients treated are those with type 2 diabetes.
Taken orally, this diabetes medication is used in conjunction with diet and exercise programs to help regulate glucose levels in the body. Studies have found it associated with significant weight loss when taken regularly by overweight or obese individuals, who attempted an exercise program to shave excess pounds for over two years.
While side effects occur from taking such drugs, the potential benefits outweigh any risks if taken as prescribed by a health care professional.
Common Brand Names
Semaglutide belongs to the drug class of incretin mimetics and comes in two forms, subcutaneous injection which is sold as Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus, or an orally taken dissolvable tablet that goes by the brand name of Rybelsus.
Ozempic is produced in multiple doses ranging from 0.25mg to 1mg, whereas Wegovy comes in pre-filled pens containing 1 pen fill of 0.75mg. Injections can be self administered on the upper arm using a ReadyPen device supplied with a needle.
Rybelsus provides one oral dosage per day containing a solution of 3mg semaglutide with various inactive ingredients such as carnauba wax and cornstarch. It's presented as a tablet and delivers greater convenience compared to injections. Rybelsus tablets offer the same benefits as injections when it comes to controlling high blood sugar levels.
