Empagliflozin Tablet

Empagliflozin is an oral medication, often sold under the brand name Jardiance, used to treat several conditions, primarily related to type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It belongs to a class of drugs called sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors.

Empagliflozin is approved for several indications, including:

• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: It is used as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control in adults and children ages 10 and older with type 2 diabetes. It is not used for type 1 diabetes.

• Cardiovascular Risk Reduction: For adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease, empagliflozin is used to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death.

• Heart Failure: It is used to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure in adults with heart failure.

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Empagliflozin is used to reduce the risk of a sustained decline in kidney function, end-stage kidney disease, cardiovascular death, and hospitalization for heart failure in adults with CKD.

Empagliflozin works by a unique mechanism that is independent of insulin. It targets a protein in the kidneys called SGLT2, which is responsible for reabsorbing glucose (sugar) from the urine back into the bloodstream. By blocking SGLT2, empagliflozin causes the kidneys to excrete excess glucose in the urine. This action helps to lower blood sugar levels and also results in a mild diuretic effect, which can lead to a reduction in blood pressure and weight. The drug's benefits for the heart and kidneys are thought to be related to its effects on blood sugar, blood pressure, and fluid balance.

Empagliflozin is taken orally as a tablet, typically once a day in the morning, with or without food. The dose is usually 10 mg initially, which may be increased to 25 mg if needed and tolerated. Consistent daily use is important for the medication to be effective.

As with all medications, empagliflozin can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

• Genital and Urinary Tract Infections: Due to the increased amount of sugar in the urine, patients may have a higher risk of developing urinary tract infections (UTIs) and yeast infections of the genitals.

• Increased Urination and Thirst: This is a direct result of the medication's mechanism of action.

• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: This can be due to a drop in blood pressure or dehydration, especially in the elderly or those also taking diuretics.