Question 1

Is empagliflozin the same as Jardiance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Empagliflozin is the generic name for the medicine previously sold as Jardiance. The active ingredient, the 10mg and 25mg strengths and the way you take it are all the same. The manufacturer is simply moving from the brand name to the generic name, which is why your packaging may look different.

Question 2

Why has the name on my pack changed from Jardiance to empagliflozin?

Accepted Answer

This is called debranding, and it usually happens when a medicine's patent expires. Boehringer Ingelheim is phasing out the Jardiance brand name and supplying the same medicine under its generic name, empagliflozin. You are receiving the same treatment, held to the same MHRA quality standards.

Question 3

What is empagliflozin used for?

Accepted Answer

Empagliflozin is used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults. It is also licensed for some adults with chronic heart failure or chronic kidney disease, where it can help protect the heart and kidneys. It is not used for type 1 diabetes.

Question 4

How long does empagliflozin take to work?

Accepted Answer

Empagliflozin starts lowering blood sugar within a few hours of your first dose, and reaches its full effect after about a week. Your prescriber will usually check your blood sugar and kidney function over the following weeks and months to see how well it is working for you.

Question 5

Does empagliflozin cause weight loss?

Accepted Answer

Empagliflozin is not a weight-loss medicine, but because it removes glucose (and therefore some calories) through your urine, many people notice a small amount of weight loss. Any weight change should be seen as a side benefit of managing your condition, not the main reason for taking it.

Question 6

Can I drink alcohol while taking empagliflozin?

Accepted Answer

Most people can drink alcohol in moderation, but heavy drinking can increase the risk of dehydration and low blood sugar, and can raise the risk of DKA. Stick to the UK guideline of no more than 14 units a week, spread over several days, and speak to your prescriber if you are unsure.

Question 7

Do I need a prescription to get empagliflozin from Mail My Meds?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Empagliflozin is a prescription-only medicine. You can request it if you already have a prescription, or complete our online consultation so a registered prescriber can assess whether it is suitable before it is dispensed.

Empagliflozin (Jardiance)

More information

An Overview From Our Superintendent Pharmacist

Empagliflozin and Jardiance: what has changed?

Where can you get empagliflozin online?

How much does empagliflozin cost?

What conditions does empagliflozin treat?

How common are these conditions in the UK?

What causes type 2 diabetes?

How is type 2 diabetes treated?

Which treatments are used most often?

What is the usual dose of empagliflozin?

What are the side effects of empagliflozin?

What is it like to live with type 2 diabetes?

Who can take empagliflozin?

Warnings, precautions and interactions

When should you see a doctor?

Lifestyle changes and risk factors

Are there non-medical ways to manage these conditions?

How to start treatment with Mail My Meds

Frequently asked questions

Sources and references

Medical disclaimer

Our commitment to content accuracy

Author

Dayna Sheppard

Medically Reviewed By:

Taslima Hussain