Why is this medication prescribed?

Empagliflozin is prescribed primarily for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is typically used in combination with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, empagliflozin has been found to have cardiovascular benefits and may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Empagliflozin is typically used:

• Dosage: The typical starting dose of Empagliflozin is 10 mg once daily, taken orally. Depending on individual response and tolerability, the dosage may be increased to 25 mg once daily.
• Timing: It can be taken with or without food at any time of the day, but it is generally recommended to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistency.
• Follow doctor’s instructions: Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider. They may adjust the dosage based on your specific medical condition, kidney function, and other medications you may be taking.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is important while taking Empagliflozin to ensure it’s effectively controlling blood sugar without causing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids while taking Empagliflozin to prevent dehydration, as it can increase the risk of low blood pressure.
• Diet and exercise: It’s important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen as prescribed by your healthcare provider while taking Empagliflozin to optimize its effectiveness in managing blood sugar levels.
• Avoid alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption while taking Empagliflozin, as it can increase the risk of dehydration and low blood sugar.
• Regular check-ups: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to the medication and address any concerns or side effects.

As with any medication, it’s essential to take Empagliflozin exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to consult them if you have any questions or concerns about its use.

Other uses for this medicine

Some potential off-label uses of empagliflozin include:

• Heart failure: Some studies suggest that empagliflozin may have beneficial effects in patients with heart failure, especially those with reduced ejection fraction. It may help reduce the risk of heart failure hospitalization and cardiovascular death.
• Chronic kidney disease: Empagliflozin has shown promise in slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease in patients with and without diabetes. It may help reduce the risk of kidney failure and improve kidney function.
• Weight management: Empagliflozin may lead to modest weight loss in some individuals, which can be beneficial for those who are overweight or obese, especially if they have type 2 diabetes.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to be followed while taking empagliflozin include:

• Kidney function: Before starting empagliflozin, your healthcare provider will assess your kidney function. This medication should be used with caution in patients with impaired kidney function or those at risk of kidney problems. Regular monitoring of kidney function is recommended during treatment.
• Dehydration and hypotension: Empagliflozin can increase the risk of dehydration and low blood pressure, especially in elderly patients and those taking diuretics or other medications that lower blood pressure. It’s important to stay well-hydrated and monitor for signs of dehydration, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or weakness.
• Genital yeast infections: Some individuals taking empagliflozin may experience genital yeast infections, particularly women. Practicing good hygiene and promptly treating any infections that develop can help manage this side effect.
• Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): Empagliflozin can increase the risk of DKA, a serious complication of diabetes characterized by high levels of ketones in the blood. Patients should be educated about the signs and symptoms of DKA and instructed to seek medical attention immediately if they occur.
• Hypoglycemia: While empagliflozin does not typically cause hypoglycemia on its own, it may increase the risk of low blood sugar when used in combination with other diabetes medications that lower blood sugar levels. Monitoring blood sugar levels regularly is important to prevent hypoglycemia.
• Surgery and medical procedures: If you are scheduled for surgery or any medical procedure, inform your healthcare provider that you are taking empagliflozin, as it may need to be temporarily discontinued.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidelines when taking empagliflozin, and discuss any questions or concerns you have about its use.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with empagliflozin. However, it’s essential to follow a balanced diet recommended by your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to manage your diabetes effectively. This typically involves consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods, controlling portion sizes, limiting the intake of refined carbohydrates and sugary foods, and monitoring carbohydrate intake to help manage blood sugar levels.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Empagliflozin, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Empagliflozin, like any medication, can cause side effects. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary among individuals. Common side effects of empagliflozin may include:

• Genital yeast infections: This includes infections such as vaginal yeast infections in women and yeast infections of the penis in men.
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Some individuals may experience an increased risk of UTIs while taking empagliflozin.
• Increased urination: Empagliflozin works by increasing the excretion of glucose through urine, which can lead to increased urination.
• Dehydration: Due to increased urination, there is a potential risk of dehydration, particularly in individuals who do not drink enough fluids.
• Hypotension (low blood pressure): Some people may experience a decrease in blood pressure while taking empagliflozin.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: This may occur, especially when standing up quickly from a sitting or lying position, due to changes in blood pressure.
• Increased cholesterol levels: There have been reports of increases in cholesterol levels, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, while taking empagliflozin.
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): While empagliflozin primarily lowers blood sugar levels, when taken in combination with other diabetes medications such as insulin or sulfonylureas, it may increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
• Increased ketones in the blood or urine: This may occur, particularly in individuals with type 1 diabetes or in those with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes, and can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious condition.
• Bone fractures: There have been reports of an increased risk of bone fractures, particularly in individuals with a history of fractures or those at risk for fractures.

It’s important to discuss any side effects you experience with your healthcare provider. Additionally, if you experience any serious side effects or signs of allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or severe dizziness, seek medical attention immediately.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Empagliflozin:

• Storage: Empagliflozin should be stored at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Empagliflozin tablets properly according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose of Empagliflozin or experience symptoms such as severe dehydration, extreme thirst, dizziness, weakness, or confusion, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Call your local poison control center or go to the nearest emergency room for assistance. Be sure to bring the medication packaging or container with you to help healthcare providers assess the situation.

What other information should I know?

• Empagliflozin is not recommended for use in individuals with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Before starting Empagliflozin, inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, including kidney problems, liver disease, heart failure, or a history of urinary tract infections or genital yeast infections.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, as they may interact with Empagliflozin.
• Regular monitoring of kidney function, blood sugar levels, and other parameters may be necessary while taking Empagliflozin.
• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to the medication and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
• Notify your healthcare provider if you experience any new or worsening symptoms while taking Empagliflozin, including signs of dehydration, urinary tract infections, genital yeast infections, or changes in kidney function.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking Empagliflozin, as it can increase the risk of dehydration and low blood sugar.
• Follow any additional instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist regarding the use of Empagliflozin.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about the storage, disposal, or use of Empagliflozin.