How much does Rybelsus cost?

Key Points

• Rybelsus has a monthly list price of $997.58
• However, qualifying commercial insurance holders may pay as little as $10
• Medicare Part D broadly covers Rybelsus for type 2 diabetes
• Medicaid coverage varies by state and often requires prior authorization
• A registered dietitian can create a personalized eating plan to help control blood sugar

Your healthcare provider prescribed Rybelsus (oral semaglutide pill) to help manage your type 2 diabetes. With a monthly list price of almost $1,000, now you wonder: can you afford it?

On the plus side, the sticker price for Rybelsus does not always reflect what people actually end up paying for the drug. Insurance coverage and manufacturer savings programs can lower costs.

This guide shows you what Rybelsus costs across different insurance scenarios and how to find savings options that apply to your situation.

What is Rybelsus?

Rybelsus is the first oral semaglutide approved by the FDA to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes.

Rybelsust mimics GLP-1, a natural hormone that regulates blood sugar by slowing digestion, triggering insulin release when needed, and reducing appetite through brain signaling.

Rybelsus is taken as a daily tablet, available in three dosage strengths: 3mg (starting dose), 7mg, and 14mg.

“Rybelsus is designed to be taken on an empty stomach in the morning with no more than 4 oz of plain water,” says Gia Eapen, MD. “Wait at least 30 minutes before eating, drinking, or taking other medications to optimize absorption.”

How much does Rybelsus cost?

List price for Rybelsus

All Rybelsus doses (3mg, 7mg, and 14mg) share the same manufacturer list price of $997.58 for a month's supply. This pricing structure means stepping up to higher doses does not increase the base cost.

Many people may not pay the full list price due to insurance coverage, pharmacy discounts, and manufacturer rebates. Your actual cost depends heavily on your specific insurance plan and eligibility for assistance programs.

Rybelsus cost with insurance

If you have commercial insurance that covers Rybelsus, the manufacturer’s savings program could reduce costs if you qualify.

• Qualifying individuals may pay just $10 for prescriptions lasting 1-3 months
• This program exclusively serves commercially insured patients and excludes government insurance beneficiaries

Maximum savings reach $300 for single-month supplies, $600 for two-month supplies, and $900 for three-month supplies.

According to Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Rybelsus, 9 out of 10 people with commercial insurance have coverage for Rybelsus.

Medicare coverage for Rybelsus

Medicare Part D plans may cover Rybelsus for type 2 diabetes. 95% of people on Medicare Part D may be covered by Rybelsus (Novo Nordisk data).

Standard Medicare coverage requires 25% cost-sharing after meeting deductibles.

2025 Medicare improvements include:

• A $2,000 annual out-of-pocket maximum
• After reaching this threshold, catastrophic coverage provides cost relief

Medicaid coverage for Rybelsus

Medicaid coverage for Rybelsus (oral semaglutide) varies by state. Most states require prior authorization, while some demand step therapy (trying alternatives first).

Coverage policies change frequently. Please contact your state’s Medicaid office to get up-to-date information about their coverage and eligibility criteria.

How effective is Rybelsus for blood sugar control?

Clinical studies show that Rybelsus is effective for blood sugar control. A study demonstrated that daily doses reduced HbA1c by 1.2% over 26 weeks.

"Blood sugar control with Rybelsus develops slowly through steady, ongoing treatment over several weeks to months," notes Eapen, MD. "Work with your doctor to understand your individual treatment timeline and expected results.”

Importance of a balanced diet when on Rybelsus

When you're taking Rybelsus for diabetes, what you eat matters as much as taking your medication.

A balanced diet works hand-in-hand with Rybelsus to help you manage your blood glucose levels.

Rybelsus naturally reduces your appetite, helping you feel full faster. Since you will likely eat smaller portions, every bite should count towards giving your body the vitamins, minerals, and fiber it needs.

Registered Dietitian, Rita Faycurry, RD, says, “A balanced diabetes diet includes whole vegetables and fruit, lean proteins, whole grains, and small amounts of healthy fats. In the right portions, these foods can help keep your blood sugar steady through the day and help prevent blood glucose spikes and drops.”

It can feel overwhelming trying to figure out the "right" way to eat with diabetes. This is where a registered dietitian becomes invaluable.

“A registered dietitian can provide you a personalized nutrition plan, teach you practical skills like reading food labels, planning balanced meals, and managing your eating schedule”, explains Faycurry, RD. “They can also help you navigate social situations, dining out, and manage cravings that may arise along the way. The goal is to help you develop a healthy relationship with food that supports long-term health."

Many insurance plans cover registered dietitian visits for diabetes management.

Final thoughts: How much does Rybelsus cost?

Rybelsus offers a convenient pill form of GLP-1 medication to manage type 2 diabetes. The list price runs around $1,000 per month, but you will not have to pay that much if your insurance plan covers the medication. 

Some people pay as little as $10 a month with commercial insurance and manufacturer savings coupons.

Please check if your insurance covers Rybelsus. Discuss with your doctor whether Rybelsus is suitable for your specific health needs.

Get a personalized Rybelsus diabetes diet plan, covered by your insurance.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How much does Rybelsus cost?

The list price for Rybelsus is $997.58.  You can get it for as low as $10 a month with commercial insurance, and if you qualify for the manufacturer's savings programs. Your specific costs will depend on the type of insurance plan, coverage details, and eligibility for manufacturer savings programs.

How to buy Rybelsus?

Healthcare providers must prescribe Rybelsus since it requires a prescription. After receiving your prescription, compare pharmacy prices and apply available discount programs before ordering to minimize costs.

How to get Rybelsus for $10?

Qualifying commercial insurance holders can get Rybelsus for as low as $10 per month through the manufacturer’s savings program.

Is Rybelsus cheaper than Ozempic?

Both medications share identical list prices of $997.58 for a monthly supply. Your actual costs depend on your insurance coverage and eligibility for the manufacturer’s discount programs.

Find a diabetes dietitian near you, covered by insurance.

The views expressed by authors and contributors of such content are not endorsed or approved by Fay and are intended for informational purposes only. The content is reviewed by Fay only to confirm educational value and audience interest. You are encouraged to discuss any questions that you may have about your health with a healthcare provider.