From CNBC: 2025-03-29 15:02:00

Novo Nordisk’s diabetes pill Rybelsus showed a 14% reduction in the risk of cardiovascular-related death, heart attack, and stroke compared to placebo in a recent trial. The pill is already approved for Type 2 diabetes and may soon be expanded to include cardiovascular benefits. Rybelsus is the oral form of the company’s injection Ozempic.

The trial included over 9,600 patients over the age of 50 who took Rybelsus or placebo for four years. Patients on Rybelsus had a 14% lower risk of cardiovascular complications, with a 26% decrease in non-fatal heart attacks. The pill also reduced the risk of non-fatal strokes by 12% and cardiovascular-related death by 7%.

Rybelsus is part of a trend towards oral GLP-1s for diabetes and weight loss. Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy, an injection, was approved in 2024 to reduce cardiovascular risk. The pill offers a convenient option for patients who prefer oral medication over injections. The trial showed consistent benefits across different patient subgroups.

The most common side effects of Rybelsus were gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea, but rarely led patients to stop treatment. The pill must be taken on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before breakfast with water. Novo Nordisk’s injectable Ozempic is already approved for chronic kidney disease in diabetes patients, with Rybelsus showing no significant effects on kidney function.



Read more at CNBC: Novo Nordisk’s diabetes pill Rybelsus slashes cardiovascular risk