Jardiance (Empagliflozin)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Jardiance Used For?
Jardiance is a medication that helps manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. It is also used to lower the risk of cardiovascular death in patients with type 2 diabetes and heart disease, and to assist in treating heart failure and slowing kidney disease progression.
Primary Uses
Jardiance is primarily used for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus, reducing cardiovascular risk in diabetic patients, treating heart failure, and slowing the progression of kidney disease.
How It Works
Jardiance works by blocking the SGLT2 protein in the kidneys, which helps remove excess sugar from the blood through urine, thereby lowering blood sugar levels.
Good to know: Jardiance is not addictive.
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How to Take Jardiance
Follow your doctor's instructions on how to take Jardiance. It is important to take it regularly for the best results.
Dosage Instructions
The typical starting dose for adults and children aged 10 years and older is one 10 mg tablet daily. Your doctor may increase the dose to 25 mg if needed.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose and it's less than 12 hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose. If it's more than 12 hours, take it as soon as you remember but do not double the dose.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Genital burning, redness, pain, or discharge
- Increased urination
- Thirst
- Itching
- Constipation
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Low blood sugar (especially with other diabetes medications)
- Dehydration
- Urinary tract infections
- Ketoacidosis
- Allergic reactions
Impulse Control Issues
Patients may experience impulse control issues, such as compulsive behaviors, while taking Jardiance.
Important Warnings
There are specific warnings to consider before taking Jardiance.
Who Should Not Take Jardiance
Do not take Jardiance if you are allergic to empagliflozin or any of its ingredients. It is not recommended for children under 10 years or those with severely impaired kidney function.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have a history of type 1 diabetes, ketoacidosis, kidney problems, dehydration, or heart issues.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Jardiance should not be taken during pregnancy as it may harm the developing baby. It is also not recommended for breastfeeding as it is unknown if it passes into breast milk.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients, especially those with dementia, should be monitored closely due to increased risks.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Jardiance, affecting its efficacy.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how Jardiance works.
- Diuretics (water pills)
- Lithium
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating machinery while taking Jardiance.
Alcohol
Drinking alcohol can increase the risk of low blood sugar.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how Jardiance affects you, especially if combined with other diabetes medications.
Storage
Store Jardiance tablets in their original packaging in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from moisture and heat.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Jardiance, seek immediate medical help. Contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 or go to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
Jardiance typically starts working within a few hours to help lower blood sugar levels.
You can take Jardiance with or without food; it does not affect its effectiveness.
No, Jardiance is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Jardiance without consulting your doctor, as this may affect your blood sugar control.
You should be cautious with alcohol, as it can increase the risk of low blood sugar.
Jardiance is not known to cause weight gain; in fact, it may help with weight loss.
Elderly patients should be monitored closely while taking Jardiance due to increased risks.
If you miss a dose, skip it if it's almost time for your next dose; otherwise, take it as soon as you remember.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.