Jardiance Side Effects: Understand for Better Health

Have you been prescribed Jardiance or are you simply curious about its effects? This medication, also known as empagliflozin, is an SGLT2 inhibitor that helps lower blood sugar in adults (and children over 10) with type 2 diabetes. But like many diabetes treatments, Jardiance side effects can range from mild inconveniences to more serious conditions.

In this ultimate guide, you’ll learn what Jardiance does, which side effects might pop up, how to discuss them with your healthcare provider, and when to seek help. Let’s walk through each aspect so you feel confident in your treatment decisions.

Jardiance Basics

Jardiance works by prompting your kidneys to remove excess sugar through urine, which can be quite effective for managing blood glucose levels. It also helps reduce the risks connected to heart disease in people with type 2 diabetes, including hospitalization for heart failure (Medical News Today).

• Classification: SGLT2 inhibitor
• Commonly Used For: Type 2 diabetes and certain heart conditions
• Main Mechanism: Helps kidneys release more sugar through urination

Because Jardiance encourages your body to get rid of extra fluid, it can spark side effects related to dehydration. As with any diabetes medication, it’s wise to watch for unexpected symptoms and keep a close eye on your daily health.

Understand Common Jardiance Side Effects

You might read or hear about various Jardiance side effects. Some are mild, while others might signal a more serious concern. Mild effects often fade after a few days or weeks, but it’s smart to check with your doctor if anything feels off.

Urinary and Genital Infections

By increasing urine output, Jardiance may boost your risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). You could also experience yeast infections, including vaginal yeast infections or penile infections. Itching, unusual discharge, and pain during urination might be telltale signs.

• Drink plenty of water to help flush bacteria
• Consider probiotic-rich foods to support good bacteria
• Alert your doctor if symptoms worsen

Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

Jardiance alone typically doesn’t cause drastic drops in blood sugar, but combining it with insulin or a sulfonylurea can heighten the risk of hypoglycemia. If you’re also taking one of those medicines, like a sulfonylurea, keep glucose tablets or snacks nearby.

• Identify signs: shakiness, irritability, blurred vision
• Check your blood sugar regularly
• Have a quick source of carbs ready

Dehydration and Dizziness

You may notice you’re visiting the bathroom more often. This additional fluid loss can mean dizziness or lightheadedness, especially for those on diuretics or with kidney issues (Drugs.com).

• Sip water regularly throughout the day
• Stand up slowly from chairs or bed
• Contact your doctor if dizziness doesn’t improve

Recognize Serious Risks Linked to Jardiance

Although rare, Jardiance has been linked with severe complications that deserve immediate attention. Don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider if you suspect any of these issues.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Even though ketoacidosis is more typical for type 1 diabetes, it can occur in those with type 2 diabetes who use Jardiance. Symptoms might include nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing, or excessive thirst (RxList).

• Watch out for fatigue or fruity-smelling breath
• Seek urgent care if you suspect ketoacidosis
• Ensure you’re getting enough electrolytes

Fournier’s Gangrene

This rare but serious infection of the perineum often starts with swelling, redness, or severe pain. While it’s uncommon, Jardiance may boost the risk of this condition (NCBI Bookshelf).

• Look for lumps or pain in the groin
• Do not ignore abscesses or sores
• Go to the emergency room if symptoms escalate

Severe Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions to Jardiance typically involve swelling, hives, or breathing difficulties. If you experience these side effects, stop taking the medication and call your doctor right away (source).

• Keep an eye on any unusual rashes
• Notice facial swelling or hoarseness
• Get immediate care if it becomes hard to breathe

Check Medication Interactions

If you take other diabetes medications alongside Jardiance, it’s essential that you and your doctor map out a safe plan. You might also want to read more about other treatments, for instance the side effects of metformin, to compare potential pros and cons.

• Insulin: Combining Jardiance with insulin can raise the odds of hypoglycemia (Virta Health).
• Lithium: Some reports indicate lithium may be less effective when paired with Jardiance.
• Diuretics: Both drugs promote fluid loss, possibly leading to dehydration.

Always discuss every prescription and over-the-counter product you’re taking to avoid unexpected interactions. If you’re exploring new options beyond SGLT2 inhibitors, you could also check out resources on trulicity side effects or victoza dosing to see how they compare.

Follow Key Precautions

Jardiance isn’t recommended for individuals with advanced kidney disease, and it’s contraindicated if your glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is below 30 mL/min/1.73m² (source). If you’re dealing with active infections, significantly reduced diet, or severe dehydration, talk with your doctor about whether to pause Jardiance.

• Monitor kidney function through lab tests
• Avoid drastic diets without medical guidance
• Stay hydrated during exercise or hot weather

Also, if you experience any signs of volume depletion (such as persistent dizziness, very low blood pressure, or fainting), ask your provider if your Jardiance dosage should be adjusted.

Know When To Seek Help

No one wants to rush to the doctor for every faint twinge, but you also don’t want to ignore bigger red flags. If you’re ever unsure about a symptom, calling your healthcare team can give you swift peace of mind.

Reasons to alert your doctor include:

1. Severe urinary or genital infections
2. Signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (major nausea or labored breathing)
3. Allergic reactions (swelling, hives, trouble breathing)
4. Ongoing dizziness or fainting spells

When treating type 2 diabetes, balancing blood sugar doesn’t mean you have to accept constant side effects. The key is staying informed, recognizing warning signs, and consulting your health professional early.

Summarize Your Next Steps

Navigating Jardiance side effects can be simpler with the right information. Make sure to drink enough water, watch for infection risks, and coordinate any medication changes with your care team. If your daily routine includes other diabetes treatments, you might want to learn about diets and interactions, such as metformin and alcohol, to safeguard your health.

You’re in the driver’s seat of your diabetes management plan. By keeping tabs on how you feel and openly discussing concerns with your doctor, you can minimize side effects and give your body the support it needs. If you have questions about further treatments or dosing, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional—you deserve the best sounding board possible.

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Armed with knowledge, a solid game plan, and close guidance from your doctor, you can keep your blood sugar in check while reducing potential side effects every step of the way.