What is Jardiance and how does it relate to chronic kidney disease?
Jardiance, also known as empagliflozin, is a medication primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes [1]. It belongs to a class of drugs called sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, which work by blocking the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, leading to the excretion of excess glucose through urine [1].
Does Jardiance have any effects on chronic kidney disease?
Research has shown that SGLT2 inhibitors like Jardiance may have a beneficial effect on kidney function and slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients with type 2 diabetes [2][3]. A large-scale clinical trial, the EMPA-REG OUTCOME study, found that empagliflozin significantly reduced the risk of kidney failure, cardiovascular death, and other cardiovascular events in patients with CKD [4].
How does Jardiance help with chronic kidney disease?
The exact mechanisms by which Jardiance exerts its benefits on CKD are not fully understood, but several theories exist:
1. Reduced proteinuria: By inhibiting glucose reabsorption, Jardiance may also reduce the amount of protein lost in the urine, which is an indicator of kidney damage.
2. Increased natriuresis: SGLT2 inhibitors like Jardiance may increase the excretion of sodium in the urine, which can lead to reduced blood pressure and volume overload, both of which are risk factors for CKD progression.
3. Anti-inflammatory effects: Some studies suggest that SGLT2 inhibitors may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could contribute to the beneficial effects on CKD.
What are the implications for patients with chronic kidney disease?
The use of Jardiance for the treatment of CKD may be considered in patients with type 2 diabetes, particularly those with established kidney disease or at high risk of kidney disease progression [5]. However, the role of Jardiance in CKD management is still evolving, and more research is needed to fully understand its effects.
Pricing and access to Jardiance
The price of Jardiance can vary depending on the country, insurance coverage, and access programs. Patients should consult their healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information on pricing and access.
Sources:
[1] Eli Lilly and Company. (2020). Jardiance (empagliflozin) Prescribing Information.
[2] Heerspink, H. J. L., et al. (2019). Effects of empagliflozin on kidney outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, 7(10), 731-742.
[3] Neal, B. et al. (2017). Effects of empagliflozin on kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes: a meta-analysis. Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 12(7), 1111-1122.
[4] Zinman, B. et al. (2015). Empagliflozin, cardiovascular outcomes, and mortality in type 2 diabetes. New England Journal of Medicine, 373(22), 2117-2128.
[5] KDIGO. (2020). 2020 KDIGO clinical practice guideline for the management of kidney disease in adults with diabetes.
Additional resources:
For more information on Jardiance and chronic kidney disease, visit the following websites:
- Eli Lilly and Company: www.lilly.com
- DrugPatentWatch.com: www.drugpatentwatch.com
- Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO): www.kdigo.org