If you have Type 2 Diabetes, your doctor may have prescribed you a medication called Empagliflozin (commonly known as Jardiance in Sri Lanka). This is a very good medication that helps control blood sugar levels. However, like any other medication, some people may experience minor side effects. But there is no need to worry about them. The most important thing is to be aware of what these side effects are, what to do if you feel uncomfortable with them, and when to see a doctor immediately. Let’s talk about that in detail today.
Why do these side effects occur? What are the most common?
First, let's understand how this drug works. Simply put, Empagliflozin works by making your kidneys excrete excess sugar from your body through your urine. This is great for controlling diabetes. However, when the sugar in your urine increases, it becomes a perfect environment for microorganisms like bacteria and yeast to grow.
This is why people taking Empagliflozin are more likely to develop Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and Yeast Infections .
Let's take a clear look at these two infections and how to manage them in a table.
| Type of infection | Symptoms | Management and prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Urinary tract infections (UTIs) |
| Treatment: If you have these symptoms, definitely see your doctor . He or she will prescribe antibiotics. In the meantime, drink plenty of water and place a hot water bottle on your stomach to help ease the pain. Avoid coffee, soda, and alcohol for a while. To avoid:Drink plenty of water regularly. Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom. Urinating after sex helps to remove bacteria. |
| Yeast Infections |
(This can happen to both women and men) | Treatment: Talk to your doctor about this as well. He or she can prescribe an appropriate antifungal cream or pill. Avoid having sex while you are taking the treatment. To prevent: Keep the genital area clean and dry . Wear underwear made of breathable fabrics, such as cotton. Change out of wet swimwear or sweaty clothes quickly after exercise. Avoid using scented soaps or douching. |
What are the other minor side effects and what to do about them?
In addition to the above infections, there are several other minor side effects that may occur. They are usually not serious.
- Frequent urination: This is something that happens because of the medication. The best way to reduce this discomfort is to take your pill in the morning . This will reduce the number of times you have to get up during the night to urinate. However, don't try to reduce your water intake as a solution! Doing so can lead to dehydration.
- Feeling thirsty: It's normal to feel thirsty because your body is losing more water through urine. Listen to your body and drink plenty of water throughout the day. However, if you experience unbearable thirst , extreme fatigue, nausea, and stomach pain, it could be a serious condition. Seek immediate medical attention.
- Nausea: Like some medications, some people may experience mild nausea when they first start taking Empagliflozin. To help avoid this, try taking the pill with a meal . If this doesn't go away after a few weeks, talk to your doctor.
- Joint pain: In some studies, a small number of people taking this medication have reported joint pain. If you continue to have this problem, tell your doctor. He or she may change the dosage or suggest another solution.
Serious side effects that require immediate attention
Although these are rare , they can be life-threatening, so it is important to be aware of their symptoms. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should seek medical advice without delay.
| Serious situation | Symptoms | What to do? |
|---|---|---|
| Severe Dehydration | Severe weakness, dizziness, and a feeling of fainting, especially when standing up. | Seek immediate medical attention. You may need to be hospitalized and given saline (IV fluids). |
| Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) | Headache, confusion, tremors, excessive sweating, rapid heartbeat, excessive hunger. | This is more common when taken with other diabetes medications. Take a glucose tablet, a sweet drink, or a sugar cube immediately. If the condition is severe (loss of consciousness) , immediately go to the Emergency Department (ETU). |
| Diabetic Ketoacidosis | Severe fatigue, nausea or vomiting, stomach pain, difficulty breathing, and a fruity odor on the breath. | This is a very serious emergency! Go to the Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. This can happen even if your blood sugar is below 250 mg/dL. |
| Fournier's Gangrene (necrotizing fasciitis) | Pain, swelling, redness, fever, and severe weakness in the skin around the genital area and anus. | This is a very serious infection that can be life-threatening. If you have these symptoms , go to the Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. |
| Severe Allergic Reaction | Skin rash (hives), swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing. | See a doctor immediately or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU). |
Take-Home Message
- Empagliflozin (Jardiance) is a great drug that helps control diabetes. However, like all medications, it can cause minor side effects.
- Urinary tract infections and yeast infections, which are common, can be easily controlled with good hygiene and medical advice.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day, but be aware of unusual symptoms, such as excessive thirst.
- Be aware of the symptoms of rare but serious side effects such as ketoacidosis and Fournier's gangrene. If you notice any of these symptoms, go to an emergency room (ETU) immediately.
- Don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about any side effects that are bothering you or interfering with your daily life. Don't keep anything to yourself.
💬 Comments (0)
No comments have been posted yet. Add your comment here for the first time.
Add your comment