Rybelsus is a prescription medication developed by Novartis for the treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD) or heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). The medication is available in three strengths: 3mg, 7mg, and 14mg. Rybelsus works by stimulating the release of insulin and slowing down glucose release from the liver, improving glycemic control and reducing the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in patients with HFrEF. The recommended starting dose is 3mg once a month, which can be titrated up to 7mg or 14mg based on individual patient response. The most common side effects include nausea, injection site reactions, headache, and dizziness. Patients with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should not take Rybelsus, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also avoid using the medication.
