Jardiance (empagliflozin) is a type 2 diabetes medication administered orally. This drug is an SGLT-2 inhibitor. Jardiance helps patients manage blood sugar levels by working together with the kidneys to remove excess glucose from your blood. Empagliflozin is prescribed alongside exercise and diet to improve blood sugar control in adults. It is important that Jardiance is only used to treat type 2 diabetes and not type 1 diabetes. 

Take Jardiance (empagliflozin) exactly as prescribed by your doctor
Follow the instructions included in the medication’s packaging

Your doctor will likely recommend taking the pill in the morning
• Jardiance may be taken with or without food
• Jardiance increases the risk of acid in the blood (ketoacidosis), so check in with your doctor to ensure you are not experiencing diabetic complications
• Tell your doctor if you experience any side effects

Before taking Jardiance, tell your doctor if you have experienced any of the following conditions:

• Are allergic to empagliflozin
• Have a bladder infection or associated urination problems
• Have a genital infection
• Have ever had pancreas surgery
• Drink excessive amounts of alcohol
• Are on a low-salt diet
• Have kidney or liver disease
• Are 65 or older

You should also inform your doctor if you are pregnant or become pregnant during treatment. Jardiance should not be taken during the second or third trimester of pregnancy, and it should also not be used while breastfeeding. Your doctor will determine the safest way to control your blood sugar during pregnancy.

Common Jardiance side effects may include:

• Bladder infection
• Yeast infection in women, indicated by vaginal itching or discharge

Inform your doctor immediately if serious side effects occur, including:

• Light-headedness or feeling like fainting
• Dehydration, characterized by dizziness, less urination, confusion, and increased thirst
• Ketoacidosis, displayed as nausea, vomiting, confusion, drowsiness, and trouble breathing

How long does it take for Jardiance to work?

Jardiance is a long-term blood sugar management drug and may take up to 24 weeks before you experience its full benefits. However, Jardiance works quickly, and you may begin to see improvements in your blood sugar levels within the first week of treatment. Jardiance may cause a different response in each patient, so results will vary. Your doctor will ensure that this drug is improving your symptoms by monitoring your reaction and conducting regular check-ups.

Does Jardiance cause weight loss?

Yes, clinical studies show that patients treating type 2 diabetes with Jardiance (empagliflozin) experienced up to 3 percent of weight loss. However, Jardiance is not approved for treating weight loss in patients without type 2 diabetes. Losing excess weight can improve your body’s regulation of blood sugar. Jardiance must be used in combination with a healthy diet and regular physical activity for the full benefits.

Can you prevent yeast infections when taking Jardiance?

You can reduce your risk of these side effects by wearing cotton underwear and avoiding tight fabrics that trap moisture. Yeast grows in moist and dark areas, so changing undergarments daily can prevent it from spreading. Consuming certain healthy bacteria, such as probiotics, can also prevent yeast from overgrowing. Talk to your doctor for more ways to take Jardiance safely.