Uses of Empagliflozin

Empagliflozin is used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults, that cannot be controlled by diet and exercise alone. It can also help to prevent heart disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is also used to treat heart failure in adult patients with weak pumping function. 

Therapeutic Category

Empagliflozin: Anti-diabetic drugs (sodium glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors)

How Empagliflozin works

Empagliflozin works by blocking a protein (SGLT2) in your kidneys. This results in removal of blood sugar (glucose) in your urine, thus lowering the amount of sugar in your blood. It also helps protect your heart from getting weaker and relieve your symptoms.

Common side effects of Empagliflozin

• low blood sugar levels (shaking, sweating, feeling very anxious or confused, fast heartbeat, excessive hunger, headache)
• urinary tract infection (burning sensation when passing urine, cloudy-looking urine, pain in the pelvis or mid-back)
• dehydration (unusual thirst, light-headedness, or dizziness upon standing, fainting or loss of consciousness)
• genital yeast infection (itching in vagina, burning sensation during intercourse, vaginal pain, redness, rash, swelling, white discharge)
• frequent urination
• itching, rash or red skin
• constipation 

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• in case of accidental overdosage
• if you experience severe allergic reaction (swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat that may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing)
• if you experience symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis (rapid weight loss, nausea, stomach pain, too much thirst, breathlessness, confusion, tiredness, a sweet-smelling breath, a sweet or metallic taste in your mouth or a different odour to your urine or sweat)

Health Tips for Empagliflozin

• Follow a healthy diet and exercise regimen while taking Empagliflozin to help manage diabetes effectively
• Empagliflozin may increase urination and lead to dehydration (increased thirst, dry mouth and dark coloured urine). Ensure you drink an adequate number of fluids throughout the day, unless otherwise instructed by the doctor
• Empagliflozin when used in combination with certain other diabetic medications, may increase the risk of low blood sugar (signs and symptoms include dizziness, weakness, sweating, confusion and hunger). Always carry a source of glucose (such as glucose tablets or sugary snack) in case if low blood sugar episodes
• Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Empagliflozin, as it may increase the risk of low blood sugar and other side effects