JARDIANCE (EMPAGLIFLOZIN)

Jardiance Description

Jardiance is one of the newer drugs approved for treating those with type 2 diabetes, and is possibly safer than the other diabetic drugs that contain similar active ingredients. Taking Jardiance while eating sensibly, exercising, and not smoking can improve your blood sugar levels and your general well being. As you lose weight and consume less calories, you can also lower cholesterol levels and reduce blood pressure.

Inhibit Glucose Reabsorption and Expel the Excess in Your Urine

The active ingredient in Jardiance is Empagliflozin, a sodium-glucose transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor. When taken as directed, the SGLT2 inhibitor will inhibit the SGLT2 protein on your kidney that facilitates the reabsorption of glucose. This action will cause the glucose to be excreted in your urine, called glucosuria. Your serum glucose is decreased, blood pressure will be lowered, and you will start to slowly lose weight as 200-300 calories per day will be expelled in your urine.

For those that have a problem with leaking urine, you could increase your risk of a fungal or bacterial infection due to the sugar in your urine. Changing your underwear several times a day is not necessary if you use a panty liner that can be changed often to avoid infections. Even if you wear adult disposable underwear, a panty liner can also save you money so you won’t have to change them as frequently.

Conditions Treated by Jardiance

Type 2 diabetes occurs when tissues in your body slowly become more resistant to insulin. This hormone is produced by your pancreas and normally keeps a constant level of glucose (sugar). When there is glucose in your bloodstream, insulin is released and it will open up cells in your body where the glucose will be stored as energy. Only insulin can ‘unlock’ these cells, but as type 2 diabetics are not producing enough insulin or your body is not using it properly, your body needs a way to keep a balance of glucose in your cells and a way to get rid of the excess. Jardiance is not an insulin, it is a glucose transporter.

Before Jardiance is Prescribed

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding to be certain of any risks that Jardiance may cause to your unborn or nursing baby. Explain other medical conditions or allergies to your doctor and discuss any OTC or Rx drugs you currently take or use, including herbal or vitamin supplements, to determine if Jardiance is right for you.

Proper Use of Jardiance

You must check your blood sugar regularly to be sure Jardiance is helping you. Limit your alcohol consumption as it can cause a rise or fall in your glucose levels. Keep Jardiance out of children’s reach and away from pets. Jardiance is only prescribed to type 2 diabetics.

Be aware that Jardiance may lower your blood pressure so remember to tell your doctor if you are currently taking hypertension drugs to avoid possible fainting, blurry vision, or nausea from a sudden drop in pressure.

Possible Side Effects of Jardiance

• Urinary tract infection
• Blood glucose too low
• Feeling light-headed