Jardiance (Empagliflozin) is an SGLT2 Inhibitor
Yes, Jardiance (empagliflozin) is definitively a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor. 1 This classification is clearly stated in the FDA drug label, which describes Jardiance tablets as containing "empagliflozin, an orally-active inhibitor of the sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2)."
Mechanism of Action
Empagliflozin works by:
- Inhibiting SGLT2, which is the predominant transporter responsible for reabsorption of glucose from the glomerular filtrate back into the circulation 1
- Reducing renal reabsorption of filtered glucose and lowering the renal threshold for glucose 1
- Increasing urinary glucose excretion, which provides an insulin-independent mechanism of lowering blood glucose 1, 2
- Primarily targeting the proximal tubule of the nephron, where SGLT2 is responsible for approximately 90% of urinary glucose reabsorption 3
Clinical Benefits
Jardiance offers several clinical benefits beyond glycemic control:
- Reduces major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and decreases hospitalization for heart failure 3, 4
- Significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular death (38% reduction) 3
- Promotes weight loss (approximately 2 kg) 2
- Lowers systolic blood pressure (approximately 4 mmHg) and diastolic blood pressure (approximately 2 mmHg) 2
- Provides diuretic and natriuretic effects 3
FDA-Approved Indications
Jardiance is indicated for:
- Adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus 1
- Reducing the risk of cardiovascular death in adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and established cardiovascular disease 1
Important Safety Considerations
When prescribing Jardiance, be aware of these safety considerations:
- Risk of hypoglycemia is low unless used with insulin or insulin secretagogues (sulfonylureas, glinides) 3, 5
- Increased risk of mycotic genital infections, particularly in women 4, 2
- Potential for volume depletion, especially in patients with renal impairment, low systolic blood pressure, those on diuretics, or the elderly 4, 1
- Risk of euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis 4
- Efficacy decreases in patients with worsening renal function 1
- Not indicated for treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus or diabetic ketoacidosis 1
Dosage
Jardiance is available as:
In conclusion, Jardiance (empagliflozin) is definitively classified as an SGLT2 inhibitor that offers glycemic control through an insulin-independent mechanism, with additional cardiovascular and renal benefits that make it a valuable option for treating type 2 diabetes, particularly in patients with established cardiovascular disease.