How to Treat a Yeast Infection from Jardiance: A Guide

October 11, 2025 •

4 min read

Genital mycotic infections are a common side effect associated with the diabetes medication Jardiance, with clinical trials showing a higher incidence in patients on the drug compared to placebo. Fortunately, these infections are often treatable with conventional antifungal medication, and management strategies can help reduce the risk of recurrence. This guide explains how to treat yeast infection from Jardiance, including both over-the-counter and prescription options, as well as prevention tactics.

Quick Summary

Jardiance can increase the risk of genital yeast infections in both men and women due to elevated glucose levels in urine. Treatment options include topical antifungals like miconazole and clotrimazole, or oral prescription medication such as fluconazole. Good hygiene and lifestyle adjustments are crucial for prevention.

Key Points

Consult a Doctor: Always contact your healthcare provider to confirm a yeast infection diagnosis before starting treatment, and do not stop taking Jardiance without their approval.
OTC Options: Mild to moderate infections can often be treated with over-the-counter topical azole creams, such as miconazole or clotrimazole.
Prescription Medications: For more severe, persistent, or recurrent infections, a doctor may prescribe oral fluconazole or stronger topical treatments.
Prevention is Key: Good genital hygiene, wearing breathable cotton clothing, and staying well-hydrated can significantly reduce the risk of infection while on Jardiance.
Address Recurrence: For recurrent yeast infections, a doctor may recommend maintenance therapy with a weekly oral antifungal like fluconazole.
Know the Cause: Jardiance causes yeast infections by increasing the amount of glucose excreted in the urine, creating an environment where yeast can thrive.

Understanding Why Jardiance Causes Yeast Infections

Jardiance (empagliflozin) is a type of medication known as a sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitor. It is used to treat type 2 diabetes, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease. The medication works by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing glucose back into the bloodstream, causing excess glucose to be excreted in the urine.

This process, known as glycosuria, is the primary reason for the increased risk of yeast infections. The high sugar content in the urine creates a perfect breeding ground for Candida, the fungus that causes yeast infections, in the genital area. This affects both female patients, who can develop vulvovaginal candidiasis, and male patients, who may develop balanitis.

Symptoms of a Yeast Infection from Jardiance

Recognizing the symptoms of a yeast infection is the first step toward effective treatment. While symptoms are similar to other yeast infections, it's important to differentiate them from more serious conditions like Fournier's gangrene, a rare but serious infection associated with SGLT2 inhibitors.

Symptoms in Women (Vulvovaginal Candidiasis)

Intense itching and burning in and around the vagina.
Thick, white, and odorless vaginal discharge that resembles cottage cheese.
Redness and swelling of the vulva.
Pain or burning sensation during urination or sexual intercourse.

Symptoms in Men (Balanitis)

Redness, itching, and swelling of the penis.
White, thick discharge under the foreskin.
Pain in the penis.
Foul-smelling discharge.

Treatment Options for a Jardiance-Induced Yeast Infection

If you experience symptoms of a yeast infection while on Jardiance, it is crucial to speak with your doctor. They can confirm the diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate course of action. Do not stop taking Jardiance without consulting your healthcare provider, as this could worsen your underlying condition.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments

For mild to moderate infections, your doctor may suggest an OTC antifungal product. These are typically topical treatments applied directly to the affected area.

Topical Azoles: These are the most common OTC treatments and are available as creams, ointments, or vaginal suppositories. Examples include miconazole (Monistat), clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex), and tioconazole. A typical treatment course lasts between 1 and 7 days.
Boric Acid: For certain types of yeast infections (non-albicans species), a doctor might recommend intravaginal boric acid capsules.

Prescription Medications

If OTC treatments are ineffective or if the infection is more severe or recurrent, a doctor may prescribe a stronger medication.

Oral Fluconazole (Diflucan): Often prescribed as a single oral dose for uncomplicated cases. For more severe or recurrent infections, a doctor may prescribe sequential doses over several days. Fluconazole is also used as a maintenance therapy for those with frequent recurrence.
Other Prescription Topical Treatments: Your doctor may prescribe stronger topical azoles, such as terconazole (Terazol).

Comparison of Common Yeast Infection Treatments


Feature	Over-the-Counter (OTC) Topical Azoles	Oral Fluconazole (Prescription)
Application	Directly to the affected genital area (creams, suppositories).	Oral pill, taken by mouth.
Typical Duration	1 to 7 days, depending on the product.	Single dose for uncomplicated infections; sequential doses for complicated cases.
Best For	Mild to moderate, first-time infections.	Moderate to severe infections, or for patients who prefer an oral medication.
Effectiveness	Highly effective for standard Candida strains.	Very effective, especially for Candida albicans.
Recurrence	Not used for maintenance therapy for recurrent infections.	Can be prescribed weekly for several months to prevent recurrence.
Cost	Generally less expensive than prescription options.	Varies by insurance and pharmacy; can be more costly.

Prevention Strategies for Patients on Jardiance

While on Jardiance, you may need to adopt a few habits to minimize the chance of a yeast infection. These measures are often recommended by healthcare providers.

Practice Good Genital Hygiene: Keep the genital area clean and dry. Use a mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water.
Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of scented hygiene products, bubble baths, and harsh soaps that can upset the natural pH balance.
Wear Breathable Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting clothing and cotton underwear. These materials allow for better air circulation and prevent moisture buildup, which creates a favorable environment for yeast growth.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out excess glucose from the body, potentially reducing the sugar concentration in the urine.
Manage Blood Sugar: Closely follow your healthcare provider's instructions for managing your diabetes and keep your blood sugar levels as stable as possible.
Use Probiotics: Some people find that consuming yogurt with live cultures or taking probiotic supplements, particularly those containing Lactobacillus, can help maintain a healthy microbial balance.

When to Contact Your Doctor

While most Jardiance-related yeast infections respond well to treatment, it's important to contact your doctor immediately if:

Your symptoms do not improve after using OTC medication.
Your symptoms worsen quickly.
You develop signs of a more serious infection, such as fever, severe pain, or a change in skin color.
You suspect a serious, rare side effect like Fournier's gangrene.

Conclusion

For individuals on Jardiance, yeast infections are a manageable side effect caused by the medication's mechanism of action. By understanding the symptoms and utilizing appropriate treatment—either with over-the-counter topical azoles or prescription oral fluconazole—relief is well within reach. A doctor's guidance is essential to ensure the correct diagnosis and treatment plan, especially for recurrent or complicated infections. By combining effective medical treatment with preventive measures like proper hygiene and consistent hydration, most patients can successfully manage this side effect while continuing to benefit from their Jardiance therapy. The significant cardiorenal benefits of SGLT-2 inhibitors often outweigh this manageable risk. For further information, consult reliable medical resources like the FDA website.(https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-warns-about-rare-occurrences-serious-infection-genital-area-sglt2-inhibitors-diabetes)

Frequently Asked Questions

Jardiance causes the kidneys to excrete more glucose (sugar) from your body through your urine. This creates a high-sugar environment in the genital area, which is an ideal breeding ground for the Candida fungus that causes yeast infections.

Yes, for mild to moderate infections, over-the-counter topical azole creams like miconazole (Monistat) or clotrimazole are usually effective. However, you should consult your doctor first to ensure it is safe for you and to confirm the diagnosis.

For recurrent infections, your doctor might prescribe maintenance therapy, such as a weekly oral dose of fluconazole for several months. Maintaining strict hygiene and controlling blood sugar are also crucial for prevention.

No, you should not stop taking Jardiance without first speaking to your doctor. The benefits of the medication, particularly for heart and kidney health, are significant and often outweigh the risk of a manageable infection. Your doctor can provide proper treatment and adjust your plan as needed.

Clinical trials show that genital mycotic infections are more common in female patients, but they can occur in both women (vulvovaginal candidiasis) and men (balanitis). The severity and response to treatment are generally similar.

To prevent yeast infections, it is recommended to keep the genital area clean and dry, wear loose-fitting cotton underwear, and avoid scented products. Wiping front to back is also important.

You should seek immediate medical help if you have symptoms of a severe genital infection, including fever, rapidly worsening pain, tenderness, or unusual swelling, as these could indicate a serious condition like necrotizing fasciitis (Fournier's gangrene).