Semaglutide in Singapore
Semaglutide (Rybelsus/Ozempic) in Singapore
Semaglutide (Rybelsus/Ozempic) has various physiological effects on the body. It aids in weight loss mainly by reducing appetite and prolonging the feeling of satiety (being full) by delaying stomach emptying. In combination, this contributes to weight loss.
Semaglutide stimulates natural insulin secretion, aids in lowering blood sugar levels and is protective against Diabetes. It slows stomach emptying which causes a more gradual absorption of glucose into the bloodstream.
Rybelsus is oral semaglutide and is available in 3mg and 7mg.
Ozempic is injectable semaglutide. It is administered weekly starting at a dose of 0.25mg, 0.5mg and 1.0mg/week.
What is Semaglutide, and how does it work?
Semaglutide is twice as effective as Liraglutide (Saxenda/Victoza) which is also available in Singapore.
Semaglutide is available in a weekly subcutaneous injection form (Ozempic), as well as in daily tablet form (Rybelsus).
Semaglutide is used in the treatment of Diabetes. It is also used to treat obesity due to its demonstrated effectiveness in weight management.
Semaglutide is a Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Receptor Agonist (GLP1-RA).
Rybelsus is an oral medication (pill) that should be taken daily with a small glass of water 30 minutes before any food. It does not need to be refrigerated but should be stored in a cool dry place.
Ozempic should be injected subcutaneously once a week into any fatty area, including the lower abdomen, thigh or underarm. We can assist with administering these injections for you until you are confident of doing them on your own at home. Ozempic must be kept refrigerated.
Both forms have similar side effects that include nausea, vomiting, constipation and/or diarrhoea. These generally decrease over time. Inform your doctor if the side effects become severe and bothersome.
What is the difference between Rybelsus and Ozempic?
How much does Rybelsus and Ozempic cost?
As GLP-1s are a newer class of medication, they are more expensive compared to other diabetic and weight loss medications.
Rybelsus starts from $216.00 (GST included) per box of 30 tablets for 3mg
Ozempic starts from $432.00 (GST included) per pen (Average use of 2 months)
How do I get Rybelsus and Ozempic in Singapore?
Semaglutide (Rybelsus/Ozempic) requires a prescription and is not available for purchase over the counter. If you are interested in this treatment, do make an appointment with us for a consultation to see if it is appropriate for you.
Semaglutide is significantly safer compared to other oral adjuncts to weight loss, for example phentermine or thyroxine when used off-label for weight loss.
Stimulants or metabolism enhancers, if used over a long period of time, can cause strain on the heart and increase the risk of high blood pressure, stroke and heart disease.
Why is Semaglutide a safer weight loss adjunct?
Semaglutide has been shown to improve blood sugar control and reduce cardiovascular and kidney injury in target populations.
