Description
Jardiance (empagliflozin) 10 mg film-coated tablets are a widely prescribed medication primarily utilized for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus. Belonging to the sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor class, empagliflozin lowers blood sugar levels by inhibiting the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, encouraging the body to excrete excess glucose through urine. This mechanism not only contributes to glycemic control but also provides protective effects for the heart and kidneys, making it a vital therapeutic option for eligible patients.
The tablets are round, biconvex, and light yellow in color with beveled edges, featuring the imprint “S10” on one side and the Boehringer Ingelheim logo on the other. Each tablet has a diameter of approximately 9.1 mm and is designed for oral administration.
Composition
Each film-coated tablet consists of the following components:
- Active Ingredient: 10 mg empagliflozin
- Excipients: These include lactose monohydrate (from cow’s milk), microcrystalline cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, colloidal anhydrous silica, and magnesium stearate.
- Coating Ingredients: The film coating contains hypromellose, titanium dioxide (E171), talc, macrogol 400, and yellow iron oxide (E172), which contribute to the tablet’s stability and appearance.
Therapeutic Indications
1. Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Jardiance is frequently prescribed as a second-line therapy when diet, exercise, and metformin alone do not provide adequate blood sugar control. By blocking SGLT2 proteins in the proximal renal tubules, empagliflozin promotes urinary glucose excretion, effectively lowering plasma glucose levels.
2. Cardiovascular Protection
Clinical studies have shown that Jardiance significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure, regardless of whether patients have diabetes. This is particularly useful for individuals with reduced ejection fraction, a form of heart failure that affects the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently.
3. Renal Support in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
For adults living with CKD, empagliflozin offers renal protection by slowing the progression of kidney damage and reducing the likelihood of hospitalization due to renal complications. It has become an important component of integrated care for CKD management.
Dosage and Administration Guidelines
The recommended starting dose for most adult patients is 10 mg once daily. Jardiance can be taken at any time of the day, preferably in the morning, and may be consumed with or without food. Tablets should be swallowed whole with water and must not be crushed, split, or chewed. Based on patient response and physician discretion, the dose may be increased to a maximum of 25 mg per day to achieve optimal results.
In patients with renal impairment, liver dysfunction, or concurrent medications, dosage adjustments and additional monitoring may be necessary. Always follow the healthcare provider’s guidance when modifying treatment plans.
Potential Side Effects
As with any pharmaceutical treatment, Jardiance may produce side effects ranging from mild discomfort to more serious health concerns. Recognizing these effects early and discussing them with a healthcare provider can help manage risks.
Category | Examples and Symptoms |
---|---|
Common | Urinary tract infections (UTIs), increased frequency of urination, genital yeast infections, nausea, fatigue, dehydration, joint pain, upper respiratory tract infections, increased thirst, hypoglycemia (especially when used with insulin or sulfonylureas) |
Serious | Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), Fournier’s gangrene (a rare but serious infection of the genital area), acute kidney injury, significant hypotension, complicated UTIs, and in rare cases, increased risk of lower limb amputations |
Patients should seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or limbs, dizziness, or signs of severe infection. Early intervention is key to preventing complications.
Precautions and Contraindications
- Renal Health: Jardiance is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m²) or those on dialysis due to insufficient clearance.
- Fluid Balance: Initiating therapy in dehydrated individuals or those on loop diuretics may increase the risk of volume depletion and hypotension. Adequate hydration is essential, particularly in elderly or frail patients.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy is not advised due to potential harm to fetal development. Breastfeeding mothers should avoid Jardiance as the safety profile in neonates is unclear.
- Hypoglycemia: Although Jardiance alone rarely causes low blood sugar, combining it with insulin or insulin-stimulating drugs elevates the risk. Blood glucose should be monitored accordingly.
- Infections: Patients are encouraged to maintain good genital hygiene to minimize the risk of yeast infections and to report any symptoms promptly.
- Lactose Intolerance: Since the formulation contains lactose, individuals with galactose intolerance or lactase deficiency should consult their doctor before use.
Storage Recommendations
To maintain efficacy and safety, Jardiance should be stored in its original blister packaging at room temperature, not exceeding 25°C. The medication should be kept in a dry environment and out of reach of children. Avoid exposure to excessive heat, light, or moisture.
Overview Table
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Active Ingredient | Empagliflozin 10 mg |
Tablet Characteristics | Light yellow, round, biconvex, 9.1 mm diameter, imprinted with “S10” |
Primary Uses | Type 2 diabetes, heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, chronic kidney disease |
Dosage | 10 mg once daily; adjustable to 25 mg depending on therapeutic response |
Common Adverse Effects | UTIs, increased urination, genital yeast infections, dehydration, nausea |
Serious Adverse Effects | DKA, allergic reactions, Fournier’s gangrene, kidney injury, hypotension |
Storage Conditions | Store below 25°C in original packaging; avoid moisture and heat exposure |
Clinical Warnings | Not suitable for type 1 diabetes, contraindicated in severe renal failure, caution in pregnant/lactating women |
Conclusion
Jardiance 10 mg tablets represent a significant advancement in the management of type 2 diabetes and associated cardiovascular and renal conditions. Its ability to reduce hospitalization risks and improve long-term outcomes makes it a cornerstone of treatment in multidisciplinary care strategies. However, like all medications, its benefits must be weighed against potential risks, particularly in vulnerable populations.
Regular consultation with healthcare professionals, proper patient education, and ongoing monitoring are essential to achieving the best possible therapeutic results. Jardiance should only be used under medical supervision with careful consideration of individual health status and comorbid conditions.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist, or another qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.
Robinson,Dubravny –
aight
Medical Guidance Center –
Hello Robinson, Dubravny, this is WikiKenko. Thanks for your feedback! Every comment helps us understand what’s working well and what we can improve for everyone. We appreciate you letting us know.