Discover the Benefits and Side Effects of Combining Jardiance and Metformin for Type 2 Diabetes Management

Jardiance and Metformin are widely prescribed medications that play a crucial role in controlling blood sugar levels for individuals living with type 2 diabetes. Healthcare providers often recommend using these drugs in combination to optimize treatment outcomes.

Jardiance (empagliflozin) and Metformin are prescription drugs intended to be used alongside lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. Their combined use is generally safe and effective for managing blood glucose levels.

There is also a combination medication called Synjardy that contains both empagliflozin and metformin. For further details on Synjardy, refer to the FAQ section below.

Continue reading to understand why your healthcare provider might suggest taking Jardiance and Metformin together.

Why Combine Jardiance and Metformin for Diabetes?

In managing type 2 diabetes, Metformin is frequently the first medication prescribed to help control blood sugar. However, a single medication may not always be sufficient to reach blood sugar targets. In such cases, doctors often prescribe a combination therapy, pairing Metformin with Jardiance to enhance glucose control.

Both medications are approved for use in adults and children aged 10 and older with type 2 diabetes. They are recommended in conjunction with proper diet and regular physical activity.

Beyond diabetes management, Jardiance has additional FDA-approved uses including:

• Reducing the risk of death and hospitalization in adults with heart failure
• Lowering the risk of severe complications in adults with chronic kidney disease
• Decreasing mortality risk in adults with type 2 diabetes who also have cardiovascular disease

Your physician may advise combining Jardiance and Metformin to achieve better blood sugar control.

Enhanced Blood Sugar Control with Combination Therapy

Research indicates that using Jardiance alongside Metformin can improve blood sugar management more effectively than either medication alone in people with type 2 diabetes.

The A1C test measures average blood glucose over the previous three months and is a key indicator of diabetes control. The American Diabetes Association recommends an A1C goal below 7% for most adults with diabetes.

Studies demonstrate that the combination treatment results in a greater reduction in A1C levels compared to monotherapy. For instance, a 2016 clinical trial showed that after 24 weeks, patients taking both Jardiance and Metformin had a more significant decrease in A1C and a higher percentage achieved the target A1C of less than 7%.

Mechanism of Action: How Jardiance and Metformin Work

Metformin is part of the biguanide class and works by:

• Reducing glucose production in the liver
• Decreasing sugar absorption from the intestines
• Improving the body's sensitivity to insulin

Jardiance belongs to the sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors class. It lowers blood sugar by promoting the kidneys to excrete excess glucose through urine.

Both medications are recommended by the American Diabetes Association for type 2 diabetes management. Consult your healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for you.

Proper Usage of Jardiance and Metformin

Jardiance is taken orally once daily, preferably in the morning, with or without food.

Metformin is available in immediate-release tablets, extended-release tablets, and oral solution forms. It is typically taken once or twice daily with meals. Extended-release tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed.

It is safe to take both medications simultaneously.

If swallowing pills is difficult for you, consider consulting your healthcare provider for guidance.

For detailed dosing information, refer to dedicated resources on Jardiance and Metformin dosing guidelines.

Potential Side Effects of Jardiance and Metformin

Like all medications, Jardiance and Metformin can cause side effects ranging from mild to severe. For comprehensive details, see separate articles focused on each drug's side effects.

Common Mild Side Effects

Jardiance may cause:

• Urinary tract infections
• Vaginal yeast infections
• Nausea
• Increased urination

Metformin may cause:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea or vomiting
• Gas
• Abdominal discomfort
• Indigestion
• Weakness
• Headache
• Weight loss

These side effects are usually temporary and manageable. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider. Do not discontinue medication without medical advice.

Serious Side Effects to Watch For

Serious side effects reported with Jardiance include:

• Dehydration causing dizziness or weakness
• Ketoacidosis (acid buildup in the body)
• Kidney damage
• Low blood pressure
• Fournier's gangrene (rare but severe infection)

Serious side effects linked to Metformin include:

• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Boxed warning for lactic acidosis (a rare but life-threatening condition)

If you experience any serious side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. For life-threatening symptoms, call emergency services without delay.

Allergic Reactions

Although rare, allergic reactions to Jardiance or Metformin may occur. Symptoms can vary from mild rashes to severe reactions involving swelling or difficulty breathing.

If you notice mild allergic symptoms, contact your doctor promptly for advice. In case of severe reactions, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Your doctor may adjust your treatment if a serious allergy is confirmed.

Important Safety Information: Lactic Acidosis Warning for Metformin

Metformin carries a boxed warning for lactic acidosis, a rare but serious condition characterized by an accumulation of lactic acid in the bloodstream. Prompt medical treatment is essential if symptoms arise.

Symptoms include:

• Muscle pain
• Abdominal pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Unusual sleepiness

Certain factors increase risk, such as kidney or liver impairment, advanced age, excessive alcohol consumption, undergoing imaging procedures with contrast dye, or concurrent use of specific medications.

Your healthcare provider will monitor you closely and provide guidance to minimize risks, including possible temporary discontinuation before surgery or imaging.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jardiance and Metformin

What is the difference between Jardiance, Metformin, and Synjardy?

Synjardy combines empagliflozin and metformin in a single tablet, simplifying treatment by reducing the number of pills taken daily. It is approved for managing blood sugar in adults and children 10 years and older. Synjardy is available in immediate-release and extended-release forms, with the extended-release version approved for adults only.

Discuss with your healthcare provider whether Synjardy or separate medications are best suited for your needs.

Are there dietary restrictions when taking Jardiance or Metformin?

No specific foods interact negatively with these medications. However, it is advisable to limit or avoid alcohol consumption while on these treatments, as alcohol can increase side effect risks and interfere with blood sugar control.

Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized dietary advice.

Can Jardiance or Metformin be used for weight loss?

Neither medication is FDA-approved for weight loss, although weight reduction can occur as a side effect. Some doctors may prescribe these drugs off-label for weight management. Always discuss potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider.

Summary

Jardiance and Metformin are effective medications used together with lifestyle adjustments to manage blood sugar in type 2 diabetes. Their combined use often results in better glucose control compared to either drug alone. The combination is also available as Synjardy for convenience.

Consult your healthcare provider to determine whether Jardiance, Metformin, or both are appropriate for your diabetes management plan.

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