From the Research
There is a potential interaction between Versed (midazolam) and Jardiance (empagliflozin), primarily related to their effects on blood pressure, which may lead to additive hypotension. This interaction is not considered major, but patients taking both medications should be monitored for symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, especially when Versed is administered for procedures 1. The mechanism of action of Jardiance, an SGLT2 inhibitor, involves enhancing urinary glucose excretion, which can lead to a modest reduction in blood pressure 1. Versed, a benzodiazepine sedative, can also lower blood pressure during sedation, potentially increasing the risk of hypotension when combined with Jardiance 1. However, empagliflozin has been shown to have a low risk of hypoglycemia and does not increase the risk of hypoglycemia when used in combination with other antidiabetic drugs, including insulin 2, 1. A study published in 2020 found that hypoglycemia was associated with an increased risk of heart failure hospitalization and myocardial infarction, but empagliflozin improved cardiovascular outcomes regardless of the occurrence of hypoglycemia 3. Another study published in 2016 evaluated the safety of empagliflozin and found it to be effective at lowering glycosylated hemoglobin with a low risk of hypoglycemia and no weight gain 4. Overall, while there is a potential interaction between Versed and Jardiance, most patients can safely receive both medications with appropriate monitoring, but dosage adjustments might be necessary in some cases 1. It is essential to inform all healthcare providers about all medications being taken, including Jardiance, before receiving Versed for any procedure 1. Key points to consider when using Versed and Jardiance together include:
- Monitoring for symptoms of hypotension, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
- Informing all healthcare providers about all medications being taken, including Jardiance
- Potential need for dosage adjustments
- Low risk of hypoglycemia with empagliflozin
- Improved cardiovascular outcomes with empagliflozin regardless of hypoglycemia occurrence.