Empagliflozin

What Is This Drug?

Empagliflozin is an oral medication used to help lower high blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs called sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors, which reduce glucose levels by promoting its removal through urine.
While empagliflozin does not cure diabetes, it helps manage the condition and may reduce the risk of complications such as heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, nerve damage, and diabetic eye problems.

Classification and Mechanism of Action

Empagliflozin is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, but it is not effective in type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
SGLT-2 transporters in the kidneys normally reabsorb glucose back into the bloodstream. Empagliflozin blocks SGLT-2, preventing this reabsorption. As a result, excess glucose is eliminated through urine, effectively reducing blood glucose levels.

Storage Instructions

Store empagliflozin:

• In a cool, dry place

• Protected from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight

• At approximately 25°C (acceptable range 15°C–30°C)

• Out of reach of children

• Do not freeze

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Empagliflozin is available in tablet form in two strengths:

• 10 mg

• 25 mg

Dosage Guidelines

The usual starting dose is 10 mg orally once daily, taken in the morning, with or without food.
If necessary, the dose may be increased to 25 mg once daily.
Maintain a 24-hour interval between doses.

Always follow the dosing instructions given by your healthcare provider.

How to Take Empagliflozin

• Take exactly as prescribed by a qualified medical professional.

• Swallow the tablet with water.

• It can be taken before or after meals.

• Not recommended for individuals under 18 years of age.

Overdose Information

In the event of an overdose:

• Seek immediate medical attention.

• Contact a Poison Control Centre.

• Management typically includes removal of unabsorbed drug, supportive therapy, and clinical monitoring.

The effectiveness of hemodialysis in removing empagliflozin has not been established.

Warnings and Precautions

Do not take empagliflozin if you are allergic to it.

Use is not recommended for:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women

• Individuals with renal impairment, end-stage kidney disease, or those on dialysis

• People with low blood pressure or those taking diuretics

• Patients under 18 years of age

Avoid combining empagliflozin with other medications without medical supervision.

Possible Side Effects

Common and mild side effects may include:

• Dehydration, leading to dizziness, weakness, or lightheadedness

• Vaginal yeast infections in women

• Fungal infections of the penis (balanitis/balanoposthitis) in men, resulting in redness, swelling, itching, rash, or foul-smelling discharge

Seek medical help if severe side effects occur, such as:

• Ketoacidosis, with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or fatigue

• Severe urinary tract infections

• Sudden kidney injury

• Increased LDL cholesterol

• Hypoglycemia, especially if taken alongside insulin or sulfonylureas

  • Symptoms: sweating, dizziness, hunger, rapid heartbeat, irritability, headache, drowsiness

A healthcare provider may prescribe additional treatments (e.g., antifungal agents) if needed.

When Empagliflozin Should Not Be Used

Before starting empagliflozin, inform your doctor if you have:

• Kidney or liver issues

• Urinary tract problems

• Pancreatic disease

• History of alcoholism

• Upcoming surgery

• Current or planned pregnancy

• Breastfeeding considerations

Also disclose all prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal medicines—especially diuretics or other antidiabetic treatments.