How does the drug Jardiance treat diabetes?

Mechanism of Action

Jardiance, also known as empagliflozin, is a type of diabetes medication that belongs to the class of drugs called SGLT2 (sodium-glucose cotransporter 2) inhibitors [1]. It works by blocking the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, which allows excess glucose to be excreted in the urine. This increases glucose excretion and reduces blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Therapeutic Effects

Jardiance has been shown to have several therapeutic effects in patients with type 2 diabetes, including:

- Reduced blood glucose levels [2]
- Weight loss, as the body excretes excess glucose in the urine [3]
- Lower blood pressure and reduced risk of heart failure [4]
- Decreased risk of kidney disease progression [5]

Clinical Trials and Efficacy

Jardiance has been extensively studied in clinical trials, with significant data demonstrating its efficacy and safety in patients with type 2 diabetes. A landmark trial, the EMPA-REG OUTCOME study, showed that Jardiance reduced major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) by 14%, compared to a placebo [6].

Patient Concerns and Side Effects

Common side effects of Jardiance include genital yeast infections, urinary tract infections, and increased urine volume [7]. Patients should also be aware that Jardiance may affect blood sugar control and may cause hypoglycemia when used with other diabetes medications.

Real-World Experience and Clinical Practice

Jardiance has been used in clinical practice to treat a wide range of patients with type 2 diabetes, from those with mild symptoms to those with more advanced disease. It has been shown to be effective in combination with other diabetes medications, such as metformin and sulfonylureas.

Regulatory Status and Availability

Jardiance is approved by the US FDA and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults. It is available as a tablet in various strengths and is marketed by Eli Lilly and Company and Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Patent Expiration and Biosimilars

Jardiance's patent has not yet expired and is expected to remain on patent until at least 2023 [8]. While biosimilar versions of Jardiance may become available in the future, none have been approved by regulatory agencies at this time.

Sources:

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21646891
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24561524
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24681322
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24464118
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25629547
[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27437992
[7] https://www.drugs.com/side-effects/empagliflozin.html
[8] DrugPatentWatch.com