Jardiance, also known by its generic name empagliflozin, is a medication that has been transforming the treatment of type 2 diabetes and supporting heart health in patients at risk for cardiovascular complications. This drug belongs to a class of medications called SGLT2 inhibitors and has been proven to offer benefits beyond blood sugar control. In this article, we will explore how Jardiance works, its benefits for both diabetes and heart health, and how it fits into the overall treatment plan for patients with these conditions.
What Is Jardiance?
Jardiance is a prescription medication used primarily to treat type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs known as sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. These medications function by blocking the SGLT2 proteins in the kidneys, which typically reabsorb glucose into the bloodstream. By preventing this reabsorption, Jardiance allows the kidneys to remove excess glucose through urine, thereby reducing blood sugar levels.
Empagliflozin, the active ingredient in Jardiance, was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2014. Since its approval, Jardiance has become an essential part of the treatment plan for many people with type 2 diabetes, and it has also gained recognition for its positive impact on heart health, especially in patients who also have cardiovascular disease.
How Jardiance Works
Jardiance works by targeting the sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) proteins in the kidneys, which are responsible for reabsorbing glucose into the bloodstream. In people with diabetes, this reabsorption leads to high blood sugar levels.
By inhibiting SGLT2, Jardiance prevents the kidneys from reabsorbing glucose, causing excess glucose to be excreted in the urine. This helps lower blood sugar levels without the need for insulin, making it a particularly useful option for people with type 2 diabetes.
Additionally, Jardiance has effects beyond just blood sugar control. It helps lower blood pressure, promotes weight loss, and offers protection for the kidneys. Research has shown that Jardiance can also reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, making it a valuable medication for patients with both diabetes and heart disease.
Primary Uses of Jardiance
Jardiance is primarily prescribed to manage type 2 diabetes, but its benefits extend beyond blood sugar control. Below are some of the primary uses of this medication:
- Managing Type 2 Diabetes: Jardiance is effective in controlling blood glucose levels, particularly when combined with other medications like metformin. It works to lower HbA1c levels, a key marker for diabetes management.
- Heart Health Protection: Jardiance is also prescribed to patients with type 2 diabetes who are at risk for heart disease. Studies have shown that Jardiance significantly reduces the risk of heart failure hospitalizations and major cardiovascular events, including heart attack and stroke.
- Chronic Kidney Disease Protection: In patients with diabetes and chronic kidney disease, Jardiance can help slow the progression of kidney damage and reduce the risk of kidney failure.
- Weight Loss: Jardiance has been shown to promote modest weight loss, which is beneficial for many people with type 2 diabetes who are overweight or obese.
Benefits of Jardiance
Jardiance offers a range of benefits for people with diabetes, heart disease, and even kidney issues. Below is a detailed look at its key advantages:
Diabetes Control
Jardiance is highly effective at lowering blood glucose levels. It helps reduce HbA1c, a measure of average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. It can be taken on its own or alongside other diabetes medications such as metformin, insulin, or sulfonylureas to help achieve better blood sugar control. Additionally, Jardiance has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, further supporting blood sugar regulation.
Heart Health
One of the standout benefits of Jardiance is its positive effect on heart health. The EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial, one of the most significant clinical studies on the drug, demonstrated that Jardiance reduces the risk of cardiovascular death by 38%. It also significantly lowers the risk of heart failure hospitalization, a common complication for people with diabetes.
Beyond these specific outcomes, Jardiance also helps reduce blood pressure, which can lower the risk of heart-related complications. For people with both diabetes and heart disease, Jardiance provides a dual benefit by improving glucose control and protecting the heart.
Kidney Health
For individuals with diabetes and chronic kidney disease, Jardiance may offer kidney protection. It slows the progression of kidney damage and reduces the risk of kidney failure. This is especially important as kidney disease is a common complication of long-term uncontrolled diabetes. By targeting kidney function and reducing the burden of excess glucose, Jardiance can help preserve kidney health and function.
Weight Loss
Many people with type 2 diabetes struggle with weight management, and obesity is a common risk factor for both diabetes and heart disease. Jardiance has been shown to lead to modest weight loss, which is beneficial for improving overall health and diabetes management. Although Jardiance is not primarily a weight loss medication, the weight reduction it offers can be an added benefit for many patients.
Conclusion
Jardiance is a powerful tool in the management of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. With its ability to lower blood sugar, promote weight loss, reduce cardiovascular risks, and protect the kidneys, Jardiance offers a comprehensive solution for patients facing these conditions. However, as with all medications, it is essential to discuss potential side effects and contraindications with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.
If you’re considering Jardiance as part of your treatment plan, talk to your doctor about the possibility of getting a Jardiance coupon to help with the cost of the medication.
