How does Jardiance work in the body?
Jardiance (empagliflozin) works by lowering blood sugar through the kidneys. It blocks a protein in the kidney called SGLT2, which normally reabsorbs glucose back into the bloodstream. When SGLT2 is blocked, the kidneys pass more glucose into the urine, so blood glucose levels drop. [1]
What does blocking SGLT2 change besides blood sugar?
Because more glucose is excreted in urine, Jardiance also leads to a mild diuretic effect (extra fluid loss). That can reduce fluid volume and lower blood pressure in some people. This contributes to improvements seen in certain heart and kidney outcomes studied with empagliflozin. [1]
How quickly does Jardiance start working?
Jardiance begins lowering glucose shortly after you take it because it acts in the kidney to affect glucose reabsorption. The amount of glucose excreted depends on kidney function and other factors like hydration status and diet. [1]
What happens if you miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, you generally take it when you remember unless it’s close to the next scheduled dose. The key point is that the glucose-lowering effect depends on ongoing dosing because the drug’s kidney effect is not constant without the medication present. Follow your prescriber’s instructions. [1]
What patient symptoms raise concern while taking it?
Since Jardiance increases glucose in the urine, people may be more prone to genital yeast infections or urinary tract symptoms (especially early in treatment). Extra fluid loss can also contribute to dizziness or low blood pressure in some patients, particularly if you are dehydrated or on blood pressure medicines. [1]
Sources
- DrugPatentWatch.com (Jardiance / empagliflozin information) https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/