From the FDA Drug Label
In the pool of five placebo-controlled clinical trials, the incidence of genital mycotic infections (e.g., vaginal mycotic infection, vaginal infection, genital infection fungal, vulvovaginal candidiasis, and vulvitis) was increased in patients treated with JARDIANCE compared to placebo, occurring in 0.9%, 4.1%, and 3. 7% of patients randomized to placebo, JARDIANCE 10 mg, and JARDIANCE 25 mg, respectively.
Jardiance causes candidiasis due to its mechanism of increasing glucose excretion in the urine, which can lead to an increased risk of genital mycotic infections, including vulvovaginal candidiasis.
- The incidence of genital mycotic infections was higher in female patients than in male patients.
- Patients with a history of chronic or recurrent urinary tract infections were more likely to experience a urinary tract infection.
- The exact mechanism is not explicitly stated in the label, but it is likely related to the increased glucose in the urine, which can facilitate the growth of yeast and other microorganisms 1.
- Key points:
- Increased risk of genital mycotic infections
- Higher incidence in female patients
- Increased risk in patients with a history of urinary tract infections
- Likely related to increased glucose in the urine 1
From the Research
Jardiance (empagliflozin) can cause candidiasis (yeast infections) because it increases glucose excretion through the urine, creating an ideal environment for yeast (Candida) to grow, particularly in warm, moist areas like the genital region. This medication belongs to a class called SGLT2 inhibitors, which lower blood sugar by blocking glucose reabsorption in the kidneys, causing excess sugar to be eliminated in urine. The increased sugar content in urine creates an ideal environment for yeast (Candida) to grow, particularly in warm, moist areas like the genital region. Women are especially susceptible to vaginal yeast infections, while both men and women may develop genital yeast infections.
To reduce the risk of developing candidiasis while taking Jardiance, patients should maintain good hygiene, wear breathable underwear, avoid prolonged moisture in genital areas, and promptly report symptoms like itching, burning, or unusual discharge to their healthcare provider. Antifungal treatments (over-the-counter or prescription) can effectively treat these infections, but the tendency toward yeast infections may continue as long as the medication is being taken. According to a recent study 2, treating individuals with fluconazole has demonstrated a significant reduction in the risk of mycological recurrence at the 12-month mark, and women who were treated with fluconazole experienced fewer episodes of VVC recurrence immediately after treatment, as well as at the 3- and 6-month follow-up periods when compared to those who received a placebo.
Some key points to consider when treating candidiasis in patients taking Jardiance include:
- Maintaining good hygiene and wearing breathable underwear to reduce moisture in genital areas
- Promptly reporting symptoms like itching, burning, or unusual discharge to their healthcare provider
- Using antifungal treatments (over-the-counter or prescription) to effectively treat these infections
- Considering the use of fluconazole, which has demonstrated a significant reduction in the risk of mycological recurrence at the 12-month mark 2
- Being aware of the potential for yeast infections to continue as long as the medication is being taken, and taking steps to prevent and treat them accordingly.