Rybelsus is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus to improve glycemic control as an adjunct to diet and exercise. It contains one active ingredient, semaglutide, which is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. Rybelsus tablets work to lower blood sugar levels by increasing how much insulin is released and decreasing glucagon secretion. This medicine also may slow gastric emptying after eating. Rybelsus has been shown in studies to help with weight loss, but it is not an FDA-approved weight loss medicine. Weight loss of about 5 to 10 pounds (2 to 3 kilograms) may occur when taking Rybelsus for type 2 diabetes. Studies showed that people who took Rybelsus lost more weight than people who took liraglutide (Victoza), sitagliptin (Januvia), empagliflozin (Jardiance), or a placebo (treatment with no active drug) . The weight loss may be a result of better blood sugar management, in addition to changes in diet and exercise. It could also be the result of digestive side effects caused by Rybelsus. The inactive ingredients in Rybelsus include magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, and salcaprozate sodium (SNAC) . Common side effects of Rybelsus include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and constipation. It is important to note that Rybelsus is not FDA-approved for weight loss, and it should only be taken as prescribed by a doctor.