How does empagliflozin work?
Empagliflozin blocks the SGLT2 protein in the kidneys, preventing glucose from being reabsorbed into the bloodstream and allowing excess sugar to be excreted through urine. This helps lower blood sugar levels and can also help reduce blood pressure and body weight.
What is empagliflozin used to treat?
Empagliflozin is commonly prescribed for:
- Type 2 diabetes (to improve blood sugar control and reduce the risk of heart disease)
- Heart failure (to help manage symptoms and reduce hospitalisation risk)
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD) (to slow progression in some patients)
Who can take empagliflozin?
Empagliflozin is suitable for most adults with type 2 diabetes or heart failure, as prescribed by a doctor.
Who might not be able to take empagliflozin?
Empagliflozin may not be suitable if you:
- Have type 1 diabetes (due to the risk of ketoacidosis)
- Have severe kidney disease or are on dialysis
- Have a history of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
- Are dehydrated or prone to urinary tract infections
Can I take empagliflozin if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Empagliflozin isn’t usually recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Speak to your doctor about alternative treatments.
What if I miss a dose?
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to your next dose, skip the missed one—do not take two doses at once.
How effective is empagliflozin?
Empagliflozin is highly effective at lowering blood sugar levels, reducing cardiovascular risk, and improving heart failure symptoms when taken consistently.
What should I do if I take too much?
Taking too much empagliflozin can cause dehydration, dizziness, or severe low blood sugar (if combined with other diabetes medications). If you think you’ve taken too much, seek medical help immediately.
What dose of empagliflozin is usually taken?
- For type 2 diabetes: 10mg once daily, which may be increased to 25mg daily if needed
- For heart failure: 10mg once daily
Your doctor will determine the correct dose based on your condition.
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What are the side effects of empagliflozin?
Common side effects include:
- Increased urination
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Genital infections (such as thrush)
- Dehydration or dizziness
Serious side effects, such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), severe dehydration, or kidney problems, require urgent medical attention.
How should I take empagliflozin?
Empagliflozin is taken as a tablet, once daily, swallowed whole with water.
When should empagliflozin be taken?
Empagliflozin should be taken at the same time each day, usually in the morning, with or without food.
What are the brand names for empagliflozin?
Empagliflozin is available as a generic medicine, but some branded versions include:
- Jardiance
- Synjardy (combined with metformin)
- Glyxambi (combined with linagliptin)
Final thoughts
Empagliflozin is an effective medication for managing type 2 diabetes, heart failure, and kidney disease, but it should be taken exactly as prescribed. Regular monitoring may be needed to check kidney function and hydration levels. If side effects occur, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
