Empagliflozin

Information About Empagliflozin

Uses of Empagliflozin

Empagliflozin is commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus.

How Empagliflozin Works

It works by inhibiting the transporter that is mainly involved in glucose reabsorption in the kidneys, thus more glucose is excreted from the body.

Side Effects of Empagliflozin

Low Sugar Level, Weakness, Dizziness, Nausea, Thirst, Increased urinary output, Urinary tract infection, Generalized itch, Rash, Genital infection

Authorship

Written By

Dr Mohd Ramzdhan Bin Mohd Masdar

MD (Crimea State Medical University)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Empagliflozin Related Warnings

Alcohol Use With Care

Alcohol may affect blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes. Empagliflozin might also increase the risk of diabetes ketoacidosis but this mostly applies to patients who abuse alcohol. Generally, it is not advisable to have alcohol with Empagliflozin.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Empagliflozin is not recommended to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have show an adverse effect on the foetus after birth however there are no human studies.

Lactation Not Advisable

Empagliflozin is not advisable to use during lactation. It is not known if Empagliflozin passes into human breast milk.

Driving Generally Safe

Empagliflozin usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.

Kidney Use With Care

Empagliflozin should be used with caution in patients with severe kidney disease as its main mechanism of action is at the kidney. Dose adjustment of Empagliflozin may be needed for patients with kidney disease. Please consult your doctor. However, the use of Empagliflozin is not allowed in patients with severe kidney disease.

Liver Use With Care

Patients with liver disease may require a dose adjustment while on Empagliflozin. It is due to the prolonged exposure of Empagliflozin in patients with liver disease. Thus, patients with severe liver disease are not allowed to be on Empagliflozin.