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Antidiabetic / SGLT2 inhibitor (gliflozin)

Empagliflozin: uses, side effects & precautions

Also known as Jardiance, Synjardy (with metformin), Glyxambi (with linagliptin).

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What it is used for

  • Type 2 diabetes (to lower blood sugar)
  • Heart failure (to reduce risk of worsening, on a doctor's advice)
  • Chronic kidney disease (to slow progression, in selected patients)

How it works

Empagliflozin causes the kidneys to remove extra sugar from the body in the urine, which lowers blood sugar. It also has benefits for the heart and kidneys that have been shown in studies.

How it is taken

Available as tablets taken by mouth, usually once a day, and in combination tablets with metformin or linagliptin. Take it exactly as your doctor, pharmacist, or the label directs, and keep well hydrated.

No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.

Common side effects

  • Genital yeast or fungal infections (thrush)
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Passing more urine and increased thirst
  • Mild dehydration or dizziness on standing

Serious effects — get help

  • Diabetic ketoacidosis — a serious condition that can occur even with near-normal blood sugar; signs include nausea/vomiting, stomach pain, deep or fast breathing, and confusion — seek emergency care
  • A rare but serious genital infection (Fournier's gangrene) with severe pain, swelling, and redness in the genital/perineal area — emergency care needed
  • Signs of severe dehydration or low blood pressure

If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.

Interactions to watch

  • Water tablets (diuretics) — added risk of dehydration and low blood pressure
  • Insulin and sulfonylureas (added low-blood-sugar risk)
  • Some blood-pressure medicines
  • Alcohol (can raise the risk of ketoacidosis and dehydration)

Who should take care

  • Stay well hydrated and watch for signs of dehydration, especially in hot weather or illness
  • May need to be paused during serious illness, before surgery, or when not eating normally — follow medical advice
  • Tell your doctor about urinary or genital infections and keep good hygiene
  • Generally avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding unless advised
  • Report any symptoms of ketoacidosis even if your blood sugar seems normal

Frequently asked questions

How can it cause ketoacidosis with normal blood sugar?
SGLT2 inhibitors can occasionally trigger a build-up of acids (ketones) even when blood sugar looks near-normal. Symptoms like nausea, stomach pain, and fast breathing need urgent care.
Why am I getting genital infections?
Because the medicine removes sugar through the urine, it can encourage yeast and urinary infections. Good hygiene helps; tell your doctor or pharmacist if they recur.
Does it help the heart and kidneys?
Yes — studies show benefits for certain people with heart failure or kidney disease, which is why it is sometimes prescribed for those reasons too. Your doctor decides if this applies to you.
Should I stop it if I am sick or fasting?
It is sometimes paused during serious illness, dehydration, surgery, or fasting to reduce risks. Follow the sick-day advice your care team gives you.
Is Empagliflozin safe to take?
For most people it is safe when taken exactly as a doctor or pharmacist advises and as printed on the label. Tell your clinician about your other medicines and health conditions, and seek urgent care for any serious reaction.

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