From the Guidelines
Jardiance (empagliflozin) is not typically associated with causing pancreatitis, as it belongs to the SGLT2 inhibitor class which has a different mechanism of action compared to other diabetes medications linked to pancreatitis risk. The medication works by helping the kidneys remove excess sugar through urine [ 1 ]. According to the 2025 standards of care in diabetes, SGLT2 inhibitors like Jardiance have been shown to have benefits in terms of glucose-lowering efficacy, weight effects, and effects on major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and heart failure (HF), without a significant link to pancreatitis [ 1 ]. In contrast, other classes of diabetes medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists and DPP-4 inhibitors have been associated with a potential risk of pancreatitis, although causality has not been established [ 1 ]. The most common side effects of Jardiance include urinary tract infections, genital yeast infections, and volume depletion [ 1 ]. However, as with any medication, individual responses can vary, and rare adverse reactions are always possible. If symptoms of pancreatitis occur, such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or a tender abdomen, immediate medical attention is necessary to determine the cause of these symptoms [ 1 ].
From the FDA Drug Label
What should I tell my doctor before using JARDIANCE Before you take JARDIANCE, tell your doctor if you: ... have or have had problems with your pancreas, including pancreatitis or surgery on your pancreas The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Jardiance and Pancreatitis
- Jardiance, also known as empagliflozin, is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus.
- There have been reports of pancreatitis associated with the use of empagliflozin, as seen in case studies published in various medical journals 2, 3, 4, 5.
- These case studies suggest that empagliflozin may be a possible cause of acute pancreatitis, although the exact mechanism is not fully understood.
- The association between empagliflozin and pancreatitis is still being researched, and more studies are needed to confirm this link.
Case Studies
- A 57-year-old woman presented with severe abdominal pain and was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis after starting empagliflozin two weeks prior 2.
- A 57-year-old man presented with hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome due to empagliflozin-induced pancreatitis, a rare complication of this medication 3.
- A 64-year-old female presented with severe pancreatitis after recently initiating the use of empagliflozin, with the medication being the likely cause of her acute pancreatitis 5.