What is Jardiance (Empagliflozin)?
Jardiance is the brand name for the medication empagliflozin. It is a prescription tablet taken orally once a day. Originally approved by the FDA in 2014 for type 2 diabetes, its uses have expanded to include other conditions. Jardiance is not for patients with type 1 diabetes.
The Answer: What Class of Drug is Jardiance?
Jardiance is a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor. SGLT2 is a protein in the kidneys that reabsorbs most of the glucose back into the bloodstream.
How SGLT2 Inhibitors Work
Jardiance works independently of insulin by blocking the SGLT2 protein in the kidneys. This action prevents the kidneys from reabsorbing glucose, leading to its excretion in the urine. This process helps lower blood glucose levels.
Expanded FDA-Approved Uses of Jardiance
Jardiance is effective for:
- Improving blood sugar in adults and children aged 10 and older with type 2 diabetes.
- Reducing the risk of cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease.
- Treating heart failure in adults, with or without diabetes.
- Managing chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Comparison: Jardiance vs. Other Diabetes Drug Classes
Jardiance's mechanism differs from other diabetes medications:
| Drug Class | Example(s) | Mechanism of Action | Primary Benefit(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| SGLT2 Inhibitors | Jardiance (empagliflozin), Farxiga (dapagliflozin) | Blocks glucose reabsorption in kidneys. | Lowers blood sugar; offers heart and kidney protection. |
| Biguanides | Metformin | Reduces glucose production by the liver. | Lowers blood sugar. |
| DPP-4 Inhibitors | Januvia (sitagliptin) | Increases insulin and reduces sugar production. | Lowers blood sugar. |
| GLP-1 Agonists | Ozempic (semaglutide), Victoza (liraglutide) | Mimics GLP-1 to stimulate insulin. | Strong blood sugar lowering; weight loss; cardiovascular benefits. |
Potential Side Effects and Safety
Common side effects of Jardiance include urinary tract infections (UTIs) and genital yeast infections. Dehydration or low blood pressure can occur. Serious side effects are less common. Jardiance is not for those with severe kidney problems or on dialysis.
Conclusion
Jardiance is an SGLT2 inhibitor that manages blood sugar by removing excess sugar through urine and also benefits the heart and kidneys. It is used for type 2 diabetes, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease. Patients should consult their doctor.
For more detailed information, consult the official {Link: FDA drug label https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/204629s040lbl.pdf}.
