If you have type 2 diabetes, your physician may suggest Jardiance (empagliflozin) combined with metformin as part of your treatment plan. This newer drug has been demonstrated to decrease A1C levels; you can take it alone or combine it with other diabetes medicines such as insulin.
Jardiance and similar drugs in its class may cause serious side effects, including genital yeast infections. You should inform your healthcare provider if this condition reoccurs frequently in your case.
Jardiance Overview
Jardiance is a brand-name prescription medication used to improve blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise routine. It offers additional benefits of reducing the risk of cardiovascular death in adults with cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
However, Jardiance is not without its side effects, which may include dehydration, urinary tract infections, yeast infections, and potential weight loss of 1.8 to 3.2 percent in clinical studies.
Metformin Overview
Metformin is another medication commonly used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It works by reducing the liver’s glucose production and improving the body’s response to insulin.
Similar to Jardiance, metformin can cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain. It is often considered a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes.
Common Side Effects of Jardiance and Metformin Combination
When Jardiance and metformin are taken together or as part of the combination tablet Synjardy, they can exhibit similar side effects to those experienced with each medication individually. These may include urinary tract infections, female genital infections, and increased urination.
Other common side effects associated with the combination include bloating or a feeling of fullness, diarrhea, excess air or gas in the stomach or bowels, indigestion, passing gas, and stomach discomfort.
It is advisable to discuss these potential side effects with your healthcare professional and seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms of lactic acidosis, such as fatigue, muscle pain, increasing dizziness, feeling cold, and difficulty breathing.
How Long Does It Take For Jardiance And Metformin To Start Working
The onset of action for Jardiance and metformin can vary depending on the individual and the severity of their diabetes.
Jardiance can start working within a few days to a week, with the full effect potentially taking several weeks to manifest. Clinical studies have shown that individuals taking Jardiance alone or in combination with other diabetes drugs experienced weight loss of 1.8 to 3.2 percent over a 24-week period.
Metformin, on the other hand, typically takes several days to a few weeks to start working and is often used as an initial treatment option for type 2 diabetes. It’s important to note that the effectiveness of these medications may differ between individuals, and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential to evaluate their efficacy.
Serious Side Effects of Jardiance and Metformin Combination Therapy
While Jardiance and metformin combination therapy is generally safe, there are potential serious side effects that should be considered.
For Jardiance, these include dehydration, severe hypotension (low blood pressure), kidney problems, urinary tract infections, yeast infections, increased cholesterol levels, an increased risk of bone fractures, and diabetic ketoacidosis.
Metformin can lead to lactic acidosis, a rare but serious complication characterized by an accumulation of lactic acid in the blood.
Other serious side effects associated with metformin include gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, vitamin B12 deficiency, and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Prompt medical attention is necessary if any of these serious side effects occur.
Combining Jardiance and Metformin with Other Diabetes Medications
Jardiance and metformin can be taken in combination with other diabetes medications, but it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before doing so. Jardiance can be used alongside metformin or other medications like sulfonylureas, pioglitazone, and insulin.
Metformin, as a versatile medication, can be used alone or combined with sulfonylureas, DPP-4 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and insulin. However, it’s important to note that combining medications can increase the risk of side effects and potential drug interactions.
Following the guidance of your healthcare provider and regularly monitoring blood sugar levels will help determine the effectiveness of the medications and ensure optimal treatment outcomes.
