Novo Nordisk gets FDA blessing for Rybelsus

Novo Nordisk has received the Food and Drug Administration’s approval for Rybelsus (semaglutide) tablets in dosage strengths of 7 mg and 14 mg for adults with Type 2 diabetes that along with diet and exercise may improve blood sugar (glucose).

Rybelsus is the first and only glucagon-like peptide-1, or GLP-1 analog in a pill and a new option for adults with Type 2 diabetes who are not achieving their A1C goal with current antidiabetic treatment.

"GLP-1 receptor agonists are effective medications for people with Type 2 diabetes but have been underutilized in part because they have, until now, only been available as an injectable treatment,” said Vanita Aroda, director of diabetes clinical research, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Mass., and a PIONEER clinical trial investigator.

Aroda added, “The availability of an oral GLP-1 receptor agonist represents a significant development and primary care providers, specialists and patients alike may now be more receptive to the use of a GLP-1 therapy to help them achieve their blood sugar goals.