Empagliflozin is an Antidiabetic medication that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved on August 1, 2014. It is used to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes, reduce the risk of cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease, and lower the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalisation for heart failure in adults with heart failure.

Empagliflozin helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalisation for heart failure in adults with heart failure, lowers the risk of cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease, and improves glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes when combined with diet and exercise.

Empagliflozin should be taken as directed, once daily in the morning, with or without food. Do not break, crush, or chew the tablets. For dosage instructions, consult a healthcare professional. Do not skip or double the dose.

Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Although all drugs can cause side effects, not everyone experiences them.

Common side effects of Empagliflozin:

• Urinary tract infections
• Genital yeast infections
• Increased urination
• Thirst
• Fatigue
• Nausea

Serious side effects of Empagliflozin:

• Ketoacidosis (high ketone levels in blood or urine)
• Dehydration (dizziness, fainting, light-headedness)
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
• Kidney problems or sudden worsening of kidney function
• Urinary tract infections with serious complications (e.g., pyelonephritis)
• Bone fractures (in some cases)
• Serious allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing)

• Ketoacidosis: Can cause life-threatening ketoacidosis, even with blood sugar <250 mg/dL. Seek immediate medical help if nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or shortness of breath occur.
• Volume Depletion: This may lead to dehydration, low blood pressure, and kidney injury. Watch for dizziness, light-headedness, or reduced urine output.
• Urinary Tract Infections: Increases risk of serious infections like urosepsis and pyelonephritis. Seek medical attention for fever, chills, or burning during urination.
  Hypoglycemia: The Risk increases when used with insulin or insulin secretagogues. Adjust doses as directed to avoid low blood sugar.
• Fournier’s Gangrene: A Rare, serious genital infection. Seek emergency care for genital pain, swelling, redness, or fever.
  Genital Mycotic Infections: Higher risk of fungal infections. Report itching, redness, or unusual discharge.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Serious allergic reactions can occur. Stop the drug and seek emergency help for swelling, difficulty breathing, or rash.

Before starting empagliflozin, assess for factors that may increase the risk of ketoacidosis, such as insulin deficiency, dehydration, or heavy alcohol use. Monitor kidney function, especially in elderly patients or those with impaired renal function. Stay hydrated, and adjust insulin or sulfonylurea doses to prevent hypoglycemia when used together. Discontinue the drug before surgery or during prolonged fasting.

Take empagliflozin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Stay hydrated, monitor your blood sugar regularly, and be alert for signs of ketoacidosis, such as nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. Inform your doctor if you experience unusual symptoms, including genital infections or signs of dehydration. Avoid alcohol and consult your doctor before any surgery or prolonged fasting.

1. Sizar O, Podder V, Talati R. Empagliflozin. [Updated 2023 May 29]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532925/

2. Forycka J, Hajdys J, Krzemińska J, Wilczopolski P, Wronka M, Młynarska E, Rysz J, Franczyk B. New Insights into the Use of Empagliflozin-A Comprehensive Review. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9775057/

3. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/204629s033lbl.pdf

4. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/product-information/jardiance-epar-product-information_en.pdf

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.