What side effects can Jardiance (empagliflozin) cause that relate to yeast infections?
Jardiance is an SGLT2 inhibitor, which lowers blood sugar by causing the kidneys to pass more glucose into the urine. That extra glucose in the urine can raise the risk of genital yeast overgrowth and genital fungal infections (often described as “yeast infections”). People using Jardiance commonly report genital itching, redness, swelling, burning, or unusual discharge along with discomfort. [1]
How common are genital yeast infections on Jardiance, and who is more at risk?
Genital fungal infections are a known risk with SGLT2 inhibitors. Risk is higher in people with a history of recurrent yeast infections, diabetes that is not well controlled, uncircumcised anatomy (for males), and in individuals who develop frequent genital irritation or moisture. [1]
What symptoms should you watch for if you think it’s a Jardiance-related yeast infection?
Typical symptoms include:
- Itching or irritation of the genitals
- Redness and swelling
- Burning or pain when urinating (sometimes due to external irritation)
- Soreness or discomfort
- Whitish discharge in some cases (more typical of vaginal yeast infections, but symptoms vary)
If symptoms are limited to the genital area, a yeast infection is more likely than a kidney/urinary tract problem. Still, persistent symptoms should be evaluated. [1]
How is a yeast infection treated if you’re taking Jardiance?
Treatment usually involves standard antifungal therapy (for example, topical antifungals for mild cases or oral antifungals for more significant infections), guided by clinician diagnosis and severity. If infections recur, clinicians may adjust diabetes management and discuss prevention strategies, because the underlying driver is glucose in the urine. [1]
Should you stop Jardiance if you get a genital yeast infection?
Don’t stop Jardiance on your own without speaking to the prescribing clinician. Many genital infections can be treated while continuing therapy, but recurrent or severe infections may lead clinicians to reassess the medication choice. Your prescriber can weigh symptom severity, recurrence, and overall diabetes control. [1]
Can Jardiance also cause urinary tract infections (UTIs) that feel similar?
Jardiance can increase the risk of genital fungal infections, and some people also get urinary symptoms while taking SGLT2 inhibitors. Yeast infections and UTIs can both cause burning or discomfort, but they are different problems with different treatments. Clinicians usually distinguish them based on symptoms and, when needed, exam and urine testing. [1]
When to get urgent care instead of treating at home
Seek urgent medical help if you have:
- Fever, chills, or feeling very ill
- Back/flank pain or severe lower abdominal pain
- Rapidly worsening genital pain or swelling
- Signs of a serious skin/soft tissue infection (severe pain out of proportion, spreading redness, or black/necrotic tissue)
These are not typical “simple yeast infection” symptoms and require prompt evaluation. [1]
Are there ways to reduce the chance of yeast infections while taking Jardiance?
Common prevention steps include keeping the genital area clean and dry, avoiding prolonged moisture, and seeking early treatment at the first sign of symptoms. Clinicians may also discuss whether another diabetes medicine is better for someone with frequent recurrences. [1]
Sources
- FDA label/medication information for Jardiance (empagliflozin) describing genital mycotic (yeast/fungal) infections and associated risks: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm