Jardiance is a medication that is commonly prescribed for individuals with type 2 diabetes as it helps lower blood sugar levels by simply blocking the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys (1). Jardiance, also known as empagliflozin, is a popular choice among healthcare providers and patients. While Jardiance is not a cure for type 2 diabetes, it can be an effective tool in managing the condition when used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle. However, there are certain Jardiance side effects that individuals need to be aware of.
In this article, we will be discussing the worst side effects of Jardiance. We will also briefly discuss the benefits of using Jardiance as part of a holistic approach to managing type 2 diabetes. Whether you are currently taking Jardiance or considering it as a treatment option, here is some valuable information to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare.
What Is Jardiance?
Jardiance is a brand name for the medication empagliflozin, which is used to treat type 2 diabetes. Jardiance works by blocking a protein in the kidneys that helps reabsorb glucose (sugar) back into the bloodstream (1). This causes the kidneys to excrete more glucose in the urine, lowering blood sugar levels. Jardiance is usually prescribed in combination with a healthy diet and exercise to help improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. As with all medications, Jardiance may cause side effects. It is important to discuss any potential side effects of empagliflozin with your healthcare provider before taking it.
AdvertisementHow Jardiance Works on Type 2 Diabetes
Jardiance works on type 2 diabetes by blocking a protein called sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) in the kidneys (2). SGLT2 is responsible for reabsorbing glucose back into the bloodstream, which results in high blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. By blocking SGLT2, Jardiance prevents the kidneys from reabsorbing as much glucose and instead allows it to be excreted in the urine (1). This helps lower the blood sugar level in type 2 diabetes.
Common Jardiance Side Effects
Here are some common side effects of Jardiance (1) :
1. Increased Urination:
Jardiance increases the amount of glucose excreted in the urine, which may cause an increase in urination frequency.
2. Urinary Tract Infections:
Some people may experience urinary tract infections while taking Jardiance.
3. Yeast Infections:
Women may be at an increased risk of developing yeast infections while taking Jardiance.
4. Hypotension:
Jardiance can cause a decrease in blood pressure, which may result in dizziness or lightheadedness.
5. Increased cholesterol levels:
Jardiance has been associated with an increase in LDL cholesterol levels.
6. Dehydration:
Jardiance can cause dehydration, which may lead to symptoms such as dry mouth, thirst, and weakness.
7. Eyes issues:
Jardiance side effects on eyes can include hypersensitivity reactions, which can cause symptoms such as redness, itching, and swelling in the eyes.
It is important to talk to a healthcare provider if you experience any side effects while taking Jardiance.
What Are the Serious Jardiance Side Effects?
Although Jardiance is generally well-tolerated, there are some serious side effects associated with the medication. These include:
1. Diabetic ketoacidosis:
Jardiance may increase the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), one of the serious complications of diabetes (3). This may happen due to excessive storage of ketones in the blood (2). Symptoms of DKA may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and rapid breathing.
2. Serious urinary tract infections:
Although urinary tract infections are a common side effect of Jardiance, in rare cases they can become more severe and lead to kidney infections or bloodstream infections (4).
Advertisement3. Hypotension:
Jardiance may result in a decrease in blood pressure, mostly seen in people who have kidney issues or take certain medications that may lower blood pressure.
4. Genital infections:
Jardiance has been associated with an increased risk of developing genital yeast infections and urinary tract infections (1).
5. Bone fractures:
Long-term use of Jardiance may increase the risk of bone fractures, particularly in older adults. So always check the dosage and get it regulated in a timely manner.
6. Cardiovascular events:
While Jardiance is often prescribed to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in people with type 2 diabetes, there have been rare reports of cardiovascular events occurring in people taking the medication (5).
It is important to seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these serious side effects while taking Jardiance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jardiance is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes by blocking the protein SGLT2 in the kidneys, which helps to lower blood sugar levels. While Jardiance can be an effective treatment option for managing diabetes, it can cause side effects such as increased urination, urinary tract infections, yeast infections, increased cholesterol levels, and dehydration. Additionally, there are some serious side effects associated with Jardiance, including diabetic ketoacidosis, serious urinary tract infections, hypotension, genital infections, and bone fractures. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider if you experience any side effects while taking Jardiance and to follow their recommendations for managing your diabetes. Side effects of Jardiance can be completely avoided if there is reliable guidance for it.
Sources:
1. Empagliflozin
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532925/
2. Empagliflozin in posttransplantation diabetes mellitus: A prospective, interventional pilot study on glucose metabolism, fluid volume, and patient safety
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6590167/
3. Euglycemic Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A Predictable, Detectable, and Preventable Safety Concern With SGLT2 Inhibitors
4. Effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on UTIs and genital infections in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5460243/
Advertisement5. Empagliflozin Reduced Mortality and Hospitalization for Heart Failure Across the Spectrum of Cardiovascular Risk in the EMPA-REG OUTCOME Trial
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6416009/
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