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Understanding Jardiance
Jardiance (empagliflozin) is a drug used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Jardiance is not a cure for type 2 diabetes but should be used alongside diet and exercise to assist with insulin resistance. When this drug is used properly, it may also reduce the risk of cardiovascular death in adults who have type 2 diabetes and heart problems. But how does Jardiance 10 mg work?
This drug is known as a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor. These inhibitors work by blocking the reabsorption of glucose (blood sugar) by the kidneys. When the glucose is reabsorbed, glucose is excreted through the urine. When that excess sugar is no longer present in the body, blood sugar levels lower and regulate. [1] Jardiance leads to a significant improvement of A1C levels. A1C is a common test for diabetes patients that determines the amount of blood sugar control.
Since it hit the market, Jardiance has been a popular medication among type 2 patients, but the drug must be taken properly. If Jardiance is taken alongside other substances, it may not work as effectively and cause complications. [2] Read on to learn more about what to avoid while using Jardiance.
Jardiance & Alcohol
The substances in alcohol do not interact with Jardiance but drinking alcohol can increase possible side effects. If you drink too much while you are on Jardiance, you may experience adverse symptoms. Possible side effects of Jardiance include:
- Urinary tract infections (cloudy urine, urinating more often, and burning while urinating)
- Vaginal yeast infections (itchiness, soreness, and pain while urinating)
- Low blood pressure
- Swelling in legs and ankles
- Confusion
- Fatigue
- Serious allergic reactions
You may increase the risk of ketoacidosis if you mix Jardiance and alcohol. Ketoacidosis is a dangerous condition that occurs when ketones (a type of protein) build up in the blood. Alcohol raises ketones in the body, causing the blood to become too acidic. This is a common complication for diabetics, so avoiding alcohol can prevent these side effects from occurring.
Other Diabetes Drugs
Many diabetes treatment plans include a combination of type 2 diabetes drugs, which may be a problem for some taking Jardiance medication. This is because Jardiance may interact with certain drugs that may increase your risk of hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia signifies low blood sugar, which can lead to complications such as a loss of consciousness. [3] The following drugs may cause low blood sugar if taken with Jardiance:
- Starlix (nateglinide)
- Glucotrol (glipizide)
- Amaryl (glimepiride)
- Diabeta (glyburide)
- tolbutamide
Blood Pressure Drugs
Taking Jardiance with blood pressure drugs can lead to low blood pressure. Certain diuretics can increase urination, which can cause low bodily fluids and eventually low blood pressure. The function of Jardiance is to expel glucose through the urine, so if you take diuretics, this process may be increased. Increased urination can flush out nutrients and glucose in the body, which can be dangerous for type 2 patients.
If you are taking Jardiance along with blood pressure drugs, ask your doctor if your blood pressure medications also contain diuretics. Look out for the following diuretics if you are taking Jardiance:
- chlorthalidone
- Lasix (furosemide)
- Aldactone (spironolactone)
- Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide)
Caffeine & Jardiance
As seen above, problems with Jardiance occur when there is a chance of increased urination. When a person consumes caffeine, you may have to use the restroom more frequently, which can cause some issues depending on your Jardiance dosage. If you consume a cup or two of coffee a day, problems are unlikely to occur. But if you regularly consume large amounts of energy drinks or other high-caffeine drinks, complications may arise. [4]
When the body consumes caffeine, the pituitary gland inhibits the ADH hormone, which prevents the kidneys from reabsorbing water. [5] This causes the excretion of water through the urine. If you drink a lot of caffeine while taking Jardiance, you may be at an increased risk of dehydration and low blood pressure. Talk to your doctor if you are worried about your caffeine intake while taking Jardiance. Visit My Drug Center online to learn more about Jardiance today.
DISCLAIMER: The information in the article is not meant to be used for treatment or diagnosis. It is designed for general awareness and for information purposes only. Always consult a medical professional for your specific healthcare needs.
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