Ozempic vs Rybelsus: Compare Cost, Side Effects, Results

Understanding Ozempic and Rybelsus

Ozempic and Rybelsus are both injectable medications used to lower blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. They are approved as add-ons to diet and exercise in those not adequately controlled with metformin alone or with metformin and other oral diabetes drugs.

How They Work

Ozempic and Rybelsus belong to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. They mimic the effects of an incretin hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).

GLP-1 slows digestion, prevents the liver from making too much glucose, and signals the pancreas to produce more insulin when blood sugar levels are elevated after a meal.

By activating GLP-1 receptors, Ozempic and Rybelsus produce similar blood sugar lowering effects to help manage type 2 diabetes.

Ozempic vs. Rybelsus: Key Differences

While Ozempic and Rybelsus are both GLP-1 agonists used for type 2 diabetes treatment, there are some key differences between them:

Administration Method

Ozempic is an injectable solution given once weekly under the skin with a small needle pen device.

Rybelsus is an oral capsule taken once daily before the first meal of the day.

Onset of Action

Ozempic's blood sugar lowering effects start after the first dose.

Rybelsus may take up to 5 days before notable changes in blood glucose are seen.

Contraindications

Ozempic has few contraindications and can be used safely by most people with type 2 diabetes.

Rybelsus should not be used by people with:

• A personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
• Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)

Side Effects

Common temporary side effects of both Ozempic and Rybelsus include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Decreased appetite
• Stomach pain

These tend to resolve within 1-2 weeks as the body adjusts.

Efficacy Comparisons

Several key factors and clinical results differ when comparing the efficacy of Ozempic vs Rybelsus:

A1C Reduction

A1C testing determines average blood sugar control over the past 2 to 3 months. Lower levels mean better diabetes management.

In clinical studies, Ozempic lowered A1C by up to 1.6% from baseline versus 1.2% with Rybelsus.

Weight Loss Effects

GLP-1 drugs promote weight loss, which further improves type 2 diabetes control and heart disease risk factors.

After 1 year, people taking Ozempic lost up to 11 pounds compared to 12 pounds with Rybelsus.

Blood Sugar Control

Both Ozempic and Rybelsus effectively lower blood glucose levels. However, Ozempic demonstrated slightly better overall results, including:

• 17-22 mg/dL greater fasting blood glucose reductions
• 37-39 mg/dL greater post-meal blood glucose reductions

This may lead to a clinically meaningful difference in A1C improvement for some individuals.

Cardiovascular Outcomes

People with type 2 diabetes have a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.

Ozempic has been shown in a large clinical trial to lower major cardiovascular events, including heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death, by 26%.

The effects of Rybelsus on cardiovascular outcomes have not yet been studied to this extent.

Kidney Benefits

Up to 40% people with type 2 diabetes develop diabetic kidney disease, which can progress to kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplant.

In trials, Ozempic reduced the risk of kidney function decline, kidney failure, or death from kidney failure by 36% compared to placebo over 5 years.

It is not yet known if Rybelsus offers similar renal protective effects long term.

Cost Comparison of Ozempic vs Rybelsus

The retail cash price for Ozempic and Rybelsus may vary but estimates are:

• Ozempic: $850+ per 1 mL pen
• Rybelsus: $850+ per monthly box of 30 capsules

However, most people with prescription insurance can obtain them for a much lower copay cost of around $15-150 per 30-day fill depending on individual coverage.

Savings cards and patient assistance programs are also available to help offset out-of-pocket expenses if needed.

Which One Is Right for You?

When considering Ozempic vs Rybelsus, think about these key questions:

Do You Prefer Injections or Pills?

Those uncomfortable with injections may benefit more from the oral Rybelsus capsules taken once per day.

What Contraindications Apply?

Due to increased risks with thyroid cancer, Rybelsus cannot be used by people with a personal or family history of MTC or MEN 2 syndrome.

How Quickly Do You Need Blood Sugar Lowering?

Ozempic may be preferred when faster diabetes management is needed as it starts working with the first dose.

What Other Health Issues or Risk Factors Do You Have?

People with cardiovascular disease or kidney problems may derive more benefit from Ozempic based on trials showing potential risk reductions in these areas.

What Are Your Budget Considerations?

While costs are initially similar, your individual insurance coverage determines actual out-of-pocket expense for these expensive, brand name drugs.

Talk to Your Doctor

Consult an expert about using Ozempic vs Rybelsus for optimal type 2 diabetes care. They can thoroughly review medical history and recommend the best treatment options available to meet your health goals.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.