Taking Semaglutide: Oral Tablets vs. Injections 

With obesity affecting a significant percentage of the population, finding effective weight loss solutions has become more important than ever. Semaglutide, a drug that can be used for weight loss, has gained popularity as a potential solution. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that almost half of the U.S. population is affected by obesity, making effective treatments more critical than ever. The Food and Drug Administration has approved Semaglutide in various forms to address diabetes and weight loss concerns. Notably, Wegovy and Ozempic offer injectable options, while Rybelsus presents an oral tablet alternative. This article will explore the different forms of Semaglutide, specifically oral tablets vs. injections, and discuss their effectiveness in facilitating weight loss.

It will also delve into the pros and cons of each method, allowing readers to make informed decisions about which option might be best suited for their needs and lifestyle.

What Is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a medicine utilized for managing type 2 diabetes. It belongs to the class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1). These medications work by mimicking the action of a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar levels. By activating GLP-1 receptors, Semaglutide promotes the release of insulin, reduces the release of glucagon, slows down the emptying of the stomach, and suppresses appetite.

These actions combined help lower blood sugar levels, help in weight management, and improve insulin sensitivity. Semaglutide is commonly prescribed to individuals with type 2 diabetes who cannot control blood sugar through diet, exercise, or oral medications. Typically, it is given as a single weekly injection.

The Different Forms Of Semaglutide

Semaglutide is a medication that comes in different forms for various medical conditions. As of my last update in September 2021, here are the main forms of Semaglutide:

Wegovy (Injectable)

Wegovy is an injectable form of Semaglutide that has been approved by the FDA for both treating type 2 diabetes and weight loss. It is typically administered once a week, and the dosage may be adjusted as needed.

Ozempic (Injectable)

Another injectable form of Semaglutide is Ozempic. Like Wegovy, it is FDA-approved for treating type 2 diabetes and weight loss. However, Ozempic is not specifically cleared for weight loss alone and is primarily intended for individuals with diabetes.

Rybelsus (Oral Tablet)

Rybelsus is the oral tablet version of Semaglutide. It offers a non-invasive alternative to injections and is taken once a day. However, it requires specific administration guidelines, including taking it on an empty stomach for at least 30 minutes before consuming food or other medications.

Is Oral Semaglutide As Effective As The Injectable Version For Weight Loss?

A review of clinical studies conducted in 2021 examined GLP-1s and their effectiveness in weight loss. The study found that once-a-day oral Semaglutide showed promising results, proving to be as effective, if not more, for weight loss compared to injectable versions of Semaglutide. Additionally, it was observed to be beneficial in reducing A1C levels in individuals with diabetes.

One intriguing aspect highlighted in recent research was the unique feature of oral tablets, which exhibited “similar or better efficacy and similar tolerability” when compared to most injectable GLP-1s. However, it is essential to acknowledge that not all Semaglutides have received FDA clearance for weight loss treatment. As these medications are relatively new, further research is necessary to comprehensively and accurately compare oral and injectable Semaglutides.

Moreover, the specific focus of the research was on individuals with diabetes who were receiving insulin treatment, which might have influenced the data. Therefore, additional research in this particular area is imperative.

The importance of providing these medications to individuals with obesity has become increasingly evident in recent times. Obesity significantly elevates the risk of various severe health conditions, some of which could be life-threatening—treatment options for obesity range from dietary and lifestyle changes to medications and surgical interventions.

How Often To Take Semaglutide?

Semaglutide injections are typically administered once a week on a designated day, and the dosage may be adjusted after four weeks if necessary. It is essential not to discontinue semaglutide without first consulting your doctor. If you miss a dose of Ozempic, promptly inject it if it has been less than five days since your last injection. Otherwise, continue your regular dosing schedule and avoid taking an extra or double dose to compensate.

If you miss a Wegovy dose, and the next scheduled dose is more than two days away, take it as soon as you recall it. However, if the next amount is due within two days, it’s best to skip the missed dose and adhere to your usual dosing regimen. If you have missed multiple doses (more than two weeks), seeking advice from your doctor or pharmacist is crucial. Long-term use of semaglutide is essential for its effectiveness in achieving and sustaining weight loss results.

Alternatively, there are oral Semaglutide tablets available for once-daily intake. Taking these tablets upon waking in the morning, at least 30 minutes before eating, or taking other medications with only a tiny amount of water, is generally recommended. If you are taking other medications requiring an empty stomach in the morning, discussing this with your doctor is essential.

Switching between Semaglutide medications can be done with the approval and guidance of your healthcare team. For instance, individuals may transition from Ozempic 0.5 mg to Rybelsus 7 mg or 14 mg or from Rybelsus 14 mg to Ozempic. However, it’s worth noting that there is currently no established transition dose.

Pros And Cons Of Oral Tablets And Injections

There are many pros and cons to both oral tablets and injected Semaglutide.

Oral Tablets

Pros:

1. Ease of Administration: Oral tablets are easy to administer and do not require special training or medical personnel.
2. Convenience: They can be taken anywhere, as they are portable and don’t need refrigeration like some injections.
3. Pain-free: Swallowing a tablet is generally painless compared to injections that involve a needle.
4. Gradual Release: Some tablets are designed for slow release, providing a steady and sustained effect over a longer period.
5. Diverse Formulations: Tablets come in various formulations, including extended-release, enteric-coated, and chewable forms, increasing their flexibility in treating different conditions.

Cons:

1. Slower Onset: The time it takes for the medication to take effect may be longer than injections, as it needs to be absorbed through the digestive system.
2. Gastrointestinal Irritation: Some medications may irritate the stomach lining or cause gastrointestinal side effects.
3. Interaction with Food: Certain medications may need to be taken on an empty stomach or with food, which can affect their absorption and efficacy.

Injections

Pros:

1. Rapid Onset: Injections deliver medication directly into the bloodstream, providing a faster onset of action compared to oral tablets.
2. Higher Bioavailability: As injections bypass the digestive system and liver, more medication reaches the target site, increasing bioavailability.
3. Suitable for Certain Conditions: Some medications are only effective when administered via injections due to poor oral absorption or other reasons.
4. Controlled Dosage: Injections allow for precise control over the dosage, which can be critical in some medical situations.

Cons:

1. Administration Challenges: Injections require trained medical personnel for proper administration, which may not always be readily available.
2. Pain and Discomfort: Many people fear needles and find injections painful or uncomfortable.
3. Risk of Infection or Injury: There is a slight risk of infection or injury at the injection site.
4. Inconvenience: Injections may not be as portable as oral tablets, requiring proper storage and handling.
5. Potential Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to the medication or the injection itself.

Where Do You Inject?

Semaglutide offers flexibility in injection sites, allowing individuals to choose from the upper arm, thigh, or stomach for administration. However, caution should be exercised not to inject it in close proximity to insulin injections. To ensure optimal absorption of the medication, it is crucial to rotate the injection site after each shot. This practice prevents the development of scar tissue, which may hinder proper absorption if the same area is used repeatedly. Emphasizing site rotation can enhance the effectiveness and benefits of semaglutide treatment.

Can Individuals Without Diabetes Take Semaglutide For Weight Loss?

The FDA has approved Wegovy, a weight loss medication, for both individuals with and without diabetes. However, Ozempic and Rybelsus are specifically indicated only for people with type 2 diabetes and are not officially approved for weight loss. Nevertheless, some doctors may still prescribe Ozempic and Rybelsus off-label for weight loss alone.

Research suggests that semaglutide injections, the active component in these medications, can indeed offer weight loss benefits to individuals without diabetes. It’s important to be aware that regardless of diabetes status, there may be potential side effects from using Semaglutide injections.

Conclusion

Semaglutide, available in both oral and injectable forms, has shown promise in facilitating weight loss. It’s crucial for individuals considering this medication to discuss their options with healthcare professionals to determine the best form for their specific needs and lifestyle. While oral tablets offer a non-invasive alternative, injections have their benefits as well. Using Semaglutide, either orally or through injection, can be a valuable aid in attaining a healthy weight and enhancing overall well-being.