What side effects are most common with Jardiance (empagliflozin)?
Jardiance (empagliflozin) can cause side effects tied to how it works in the kidneys (it helps the body remove glucose through urine). Commonly reported effects include [1]:
- Genital yeast infections (especially in people with a history of these infections)
- Frequent urination and increased urine volume
- Increased thirst or signs of dehydration (for some people)
- Urinary tract symptoms can occur, and sometimes urinary tract infections are reported
What serious side effects should patients watch for?
Some reactions are less common but important. Seek urgent care if symptoms suggest any of the following [1]:
- Signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which can occur even if blood sugar is not extremely high. Symptoms can include nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain, trouble breathing, unusual sleepiness, or feeling very unwell.
- Severe dehydration or low blood pressure, especially if you’re also sick with vomiting/diarrhea or you’re not drinking enough.
- Serious genital infections (pain, swelling, redness, fever, or rapidly worsening symptoms).
- Kidney problems can occur; symptoms may include reduced urination or unexpected swelling.
Why does Jardiance increase genital yeast infections and UTIs?
By increasing glucose in the urine, Jardiance creates conditions where yeast and some bacteria may grow more easily, which can raise the risk of [1]:
- Vaginal yeast infections or balanitis (in uncircumcised men)
- Recurrent genital irritation, itching, or discharge
- Urinary tract infections in some patients
Good genital hygiene and prompt treatment at the first sign of symptoms can reduce how long symptoms last, but Jardiance-related infections can still recur.
What side effects are people most likely to ask about with dosing or interactions?
People often notice side effects that relate to fluid balance and blood pressure, particularly if they take other medications that lower blood pressure or affect kidneys [1]:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Dehydration symptoms, especially during hot weather or illness
- Changes in kidney function on blood tests
If you’re also taking a diuretic (“water pill”) or have low blood pressure, your clinician may monitor you more closely or adjust treatment.
How do side effects differ between men and women?
The most distinctive Jardiance-related side effect is genital infection. Risk tends to be higher for [1]:
- Women (vaginal yeast infections)
- Uncircumcised men (balanitis)
The types of symptoms differ by anatomy, but both groups can experience itching, redness, swelling, and discharge or discomfort.
When should Jardiance be avoided or paused to prevent complications?
Clinicians commonly adjust or pause SGLT2 inhibitors like Jardiance during situations that increase risk of dehydration or ketoacidosis, such as prolonged fasting, major illness, or surgery [1]. If you’re planning a procedure or you become sick, contact your prescriber for specific “sick day” guidance.
Does Jardiance cause hypoglycemia?
Jardiance by itself usually has a low risk of causing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Risk increases when Jardiance is used with [1]:
- Insulin
- Medications that stimulate insulin release (for example, sulfonylureas)
Where can I check Jardiance side effects in authoritative labeling?
For detailed side-effect information, including frequency and warnings, see the FDA-approved prescribing information for Jardiance. DrugPatentWatch.com also hosts product-related reference pages that link out to key regulatory documentation, which can be a useful place to start [2].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugs.com/monograph/jardiance-empagliflozin.html
[2] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/ (Jardiance-related product/regulatory reference pages)