Jardiance
PrescriptionWhat is Jardiance?
Jardiance is a prescription medication used to manage type 2 diabetes in adults. The active ingredient is empagliflozin, which belongs to a class of drugs called SGLT2 inhibitors. This medication helps your body remove excess sugar through your urine, which lowers blood sugar levels.
Beyond blood sugar control, Jardiance also reduces the risk of cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes and heart disease. The FDA has approved it to lower the risk of hospitalization for heart failure in certain patients. Jardiance works differently from older diabetes medications like metformin or insulin.
Your doctor may prescribe Jardiance alone or combine it with other diabetes treatments. It comes as a tablet you take once daily, usually in the morning. Jardiance requires a prescription and should always be used under medical supervision.
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Common uses
- Managing blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes
- Reducing the risk of cardiovascular death in type 2 diabetes patients with heart disease
- Lowering the risk of hospitalization for heart failure in adults with heart failure
- Reducing the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization in adults with heart failure
- Slowing kidney disease progression in adults at risk of kidney disease
How it works
Jardiance works by blocking a protein in your kidneys called SGLT2. This protein normally helps your kidneys reabsorb sugar from your urine back into your bloodstream. When Jardiance blocks SGLT2, your kidneys flush out extra sugar through your urine instead. This process removes around 60 to 90 grams of sugar from your body each day.
The medication also helps reduce strain on your heart and kidneys. By removing excess fluid and decreasing blood pressure slightly, Jardiance protects your cardiovascular system. These benefits explain why it helps prevent heart failure hospitalizations and slows kidney damage in people with diabetes.
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Dosage information
The typical starting dose of Jardiance is 10 mg taken once daily in the morning. Your doctor may increase your dose to 25 mg once daily if you need better blood sugar control. You can take Jardiance with or without food. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions, as your dose depends on your kidney function and treatment goals. Never adjust your dose without consulting your healthcare provider.
Side effects
- Urinary tract infections or increased urination
- Yeast infections in women and men
- Increased thirst or dry mouth
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Changes in cholesterol levels
Serious side effects require immediate medical attention. These include signs of ketoacidosis such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, tiredness, or trouble breathing. Contact your doctor right away if you experience painful urination, blood in urine, severe dehydration, or unusual genital pain or discharge. Jardiance may also cause low blood pressure, especially when combined with diuretics or blood pressure medications.
Drug interactions
- Insulin or other diabetes medications may increase low blood sugar risk when combined with Jardiance
- Diuretics or water pills may increase dehydration and low blood pressure risk
- Blood pressure medications may cause excessive blood pressure lowering
- Not recommended for people with severe kidney disease or on dialysis
- Should not be used in patients with type 1 diabetes
- May not be suitable for people with a history of yeast infections or urinary tract infections
- Avoid if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
Blood test monitoring
Regular blood tests help ensure Jardiance works safely and effectively for you. Your doctor will check your blood sugar or glucose levels regularly to see if the medication is controlling your diabetes. Hemoglobin A1c tests measure your average blood sugar over the past 2 to 3 months and are usually done every 3 to 6 months. Your kidney function should be monitored through eGFR tests before starting Jardiance and regularly during treatment, as the medication affects how your kidneys work. Rite Aid offers convenient blood testing services with over 200 biomarkers, making it easy to track these important health markers between doctor visits.
Related blood tests
Taking Jardiance? Monitor your levels.
- Track how your body responds
- Catch side effects early with blood work
- Share results with your doctor
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Jardiance is available at Rite Aid Pharmacy locations with a valid prescription from your doctor. Rite Aid pharmacy services are returning soon and will offer convenient access to your diabetes medications. You can check availability and pricing by contacting your local Rite Aid or using our online pharmacy services when they launch.
Jardiance starts removing sugar through your urine within hours of your first dose. However, you may not notice significant changes in your blood sugar levels for 1 to 2 weeks. The full cardiovascular and kidney benefits develop over several months of consistent use. Always continue taking Jardiance as prescribed, even if you feel fine.
Jardiance dosing depends on your kidney function, measured by eGFR tests. Your doctor may prescribe it if your eGFR is above 20, but it works best with better kidney function. If you have severe kidney disease or are on dialysis, Jardiance is not recommended. Regular kidney monitoring is essential while taking this medication.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember on the same day. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Never take two doses of Jardiance at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
Many people lose a modest amount of weight while taking Jardiance, typically 2 to 3 percent of their body weight. This happens because the medication removes extra sugar and some water from your body. Weight loss is a side effect, not the primary purpose of the medication. Your results may vary based on your diet and activity level.
You need regular blood sugar and hemoglobin A1c tests to monitor diabetes control. Your doctor will also check your kidney function with eGFR tests before starting and during treatment. Rite Aid offers blood testing services that measure over 200 biomarkers including glucose, hemoglobin A1c, and kidney markers. These tests help ensure Jardiance is working safely for you.
Drinking alcohol while taking Jardiance may increase your risk of low blood sugar and dehydration. Alcohol can also increase ketoacidosis risk, a serious side effect of SGLT2 inhibitors. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation and monitor your blood sugar carefully. Talk to your doctor about safe alcohol consumption with your specific treatment plan.
Jardiance increases sugar in your urine, which creates an environment where bacteria and yeast can grow more easily. This leads to more frequent urinary tract infections and genital yeast infections in some people. Staying well hydrated and maintaining good hygiene can help reduce this risk. Contact your doctor if you develop symptoms of infection like burning, itching, or unusual discharge.
Yes, Jardiance is actually approved to treat heart failure and reduce hospitalization risk. It helps remove excess fluid and reduces strain on your heart. Your doctor may prescribe Jardiance specifically for heart failure, even if you do not have diabetes. Always follow your cardiologist's instructions and attend regular follow-up appointments.
Never stop taking Jardiance without talking to your doctor first. Your blood sugar may be normal because the medication is working, not because your diabetes is gone. Stopping suddenly can cause your blood sugar to spike and increase your risk of complications. Your doctor will help you determine the right long-term treatment plan for your diabetes.