Jardiance and alcohol?

Why Should Patients with Diabetes Avoid Combining Jardiance with Alcohol?

Jardiance, also known as empagliflozin, is a medication prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes. This medication belongs to a class of drugs called SGLT2 inhibitors, which help lower blood sugar levels by decreasing the amount of glucose reabsorbed in the kidneys and promoting its excretion in the urine.

When taken as directed, Jardiance can be an effective treatment for diabetes management. However, patients should be aware of the potential risks associated with combining Jardiance with alcohol consumption. [1]

What Happens if I Mix Jardiance with Alcohol?

Alcohol can increase the risk of dehydration, which may worsen the side effects of Jardiance. Dehydration can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and rapid heartbeat, making it more difficult to manage blood sugar levels.

Furthermore, alcohol can also increase the effects of Jardiance on the body, such as reducing blood sugar levels. This may lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in some patients, which can be life-threatening if left untreated. [2]

Can I Still Drink Alcohol If I Take Jardiance?

If you take Jardiance and choose to consume alcohol, it is essential to follow these guidelines:

* Drink in moderation and limit your daily intake to no more than 1-2 drinks (12 oz beer or 1.5 oz liquor).
* Monitor your blood sugar levels closely and have a source of glucose nearby.
* Consider skipping alcohol intake for several weeks after starting Jardiance to allow your body to adjust.

What Side Effects Should I Watch Out for When Combining Jardiance with Alcohol?

When mixing Jardiance with alcohol, patients should be aware of potential side effects such as: [3]

* Dizziness or lightheadedness
* Nausea and vomiting
* Diarrhea or abdominal pain
* Urine or urine sugar (dysuria)

If you experience any of these symptoms or have concerns about combining Jardiance with alcohol, consult your healthcare provider or a medical professional for guidance.

Is There a Safe Alternative for Drinking While Taking Jardiance?

For some people, the desire to have a drink or enjoy social occasions while taking Jardiance can be a real challenge. While moderation is encouraged, there is no definitive answer. Some patients with diabetes use non-alcoholic beverages, such as:

* Infused water
* Sparkling mineral water
* Unsweetened tea
* Decaf coffee

References

[1] DrugPatentWatch.com: Empagliflozin Patent Expiration Date - https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/empagliflozin

[2] National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Diabetes Management (2022) - https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes

[3] Jardiance label information (2022) - https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/205834s019lbl.pdf