More than 37 million Americans live with diabetes, and millions more are prescribed SGLT2 inhibitors like Jardiance (empagliflozin) every year. Jardiance has earned a strong reputation — it lowers blood sugar, reduces cardiovascular risk, and may even slow kidney disease progression. But like every medication, it comes with a list of side effects that patients deserve to understand clearly before they fill that prescription.
At Endocrinology and Diabetes Care in Forest Hills, NY — offered through New York Preventive Health Center (NYP Clinic) — our team regularly helps patients navigate exactly this kind of question. Knowing what to expect, and how to respond, makes a real difference in how well patients stay on track with their treatment.
Connect Endocrinology and Diabetes Care in Forest Hills, NY.
Key Takeaways
- Jardiance is an effective SGLT2 inhibitor for type 2 diabetes, but it carries several well-documented side effects that patients should know about before starting treatment.
- Urinary tract infections and genital yeast infections are the most frequently reported adverse effects, affecting a significant portion of patients — especially women.
- Increased urination and volume depletion (dehydration) are directly tied to how the drug works and can often be managed with simple lifestyle adjustments.
- Rare but serious risks — including diabetic ketoacidosis and Fournier’s gangrene — require immediate medical attention if symptoms appear.
- Regular follow-up with a diabetes specialist is the most reliable way to catch and manage side effects early.
How Jardiance Works — and Why Side Effects Happen
Jardiance belongs to a class of drugs called SGLT2 inhibitors. It works by blocking a protein in the kidneys that normally reabsorbs glucose back into the bloodstream. Instead, excess glucose is flushed out through urine. This mechanism is effective at lowering blood sugar — but it also explains why so many of its side effects involve the urinary and genital systems.
Comprehending the “why” behind side effects makes them easier to manage and less alarming when they appear.
The 7 Most Common Jardiance Side Effects (and How to Manage Them)
1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
UTIs are consistently the most commonly reported side effect of Jardiance. Because the drug causes glucose to be excreted in the urine, that sugar-rich environment becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. Symptoms include a burning sensation during urination, frequent urges to urinate, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and pelvic discomfort.
Management tips about Urinary Infections:
- Stay well hydrated throughout the day (unless your doctor has restricted fluid intake for another condition)
- Urinate promptly after sexual activity
- Wipe front to back to reduce bacterial transfer
- Contact your provider immediately if you develop fever, chills, or back/flank pain — these may signal a kidney infection
If a UTI is confirmed, your doctor will likely prescribe a short course of antibiotics. Do not stop Jardiance without consulting your provider first.
2. Genital Yeast Infections (Mycotic Infections)
The FDA’s prescribing information for Jardiance specifically flags genital mycotic infections as occurring in 5% or more of patients in clinical trials — making this one of the most well-documented risks. Women are disproportionately affected, though men can develop balanitis (inflammation of the head of the penis) as well.
The cause is the same as with UTIs: glucose in the urine and genital area creates conditions where yeast thrives.
Management tips about Mycotic Infections:
- Keep the genital area clean and dry
- Wear breathable, cotton underwear
- Over-the-counter antifungal creams can treat mild cases, but recurrent infections warrant a conversation with your doctor
- Your provider may consider adjusting your Jardiance dose or adding a preventive antifungal regimen
3. Increased Urination (Polyuria)
Because Jardiance actively pushes glucose — and water — out through the kidneys, increased urination is expected and common, especially in the first few weeks of treatment. Most patients find this inconvenient rather than dangerous, but it can disrupt sleep and daily routines.
Management tips aboute Polyuria:
- Take Jardiance in the morning to reduce nighttime bathroom trips
- Track how often you’re urinating; if it becomes excessive or painful, report it to your care team
- This effect often decreases as your body adjusts to the medication
4. Volume Depletion and Dehydration
Closely related to increased urination, volume depletion occurs when the body loses too much fluid. Symptoms include dizziness, lightheadedness (especially when standing up quickly — called orthostatic hypotension), excessive thirst, and in more severe cases, fainting or low blood pressure.
Older adults and patients already taking diuretics are at higher risk.
Management tips about volume depletion:
- Drink adequate fluids daily
- Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions
- Monitor blood pressure regularly — NYP Clinic’s heart care and cardiology services can help patients who need cardiovascular monitoring alongside diabetes management
- Tell your doctor if you experience persistent dizziness or fainting
5. Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
Jardiance on its own does not typically cause hypoglycemia. Nevertheless, when it is used in combination with insulin or sulfonylureas (such as glipizide), the risk of low blood sugar increases significantly. Symptoms include shakiness, sweating, confusion, rapid heartbeat, and hunger.
If you are curious about how other diabetes medications interact with blood sugar levels, our article on whether glipizide causes weight loss offers useful context.
Management tips about Hypoglycemia:
- Always carry a fast-acting glucose source (glucose tablets, juice)
- Monitor blood sugar more frequently when starting or adjusting Jardiance
- Work with your endocrinologist to adjust insulin or sulfonylurea doses as needed
6. Elevated Cholesterol Levels
Some patients taking Jardiance experience a modest increase in LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. This is worth monitoring, especially for patients who already have cardiovascular risk factors. The increase is generally small but should not be ignored.
Management tips about cholesterol levels:
- Have your lipid panel checked regularly
- Follow a heart-healthy diet rich in fiber, lean protein, and healthy fats
- If cholesterol rises meaningfully, your doctor may recommend a statin or dietary changes
- For more on managing cholesterol alongside diabetes, see our resource on cholesterol management from cardiology experts
7. Joint Pain, Nausea, and Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
These three side effects are grouped together because they are generally mild and often resolve on their own. Joint pain (arthralgia) and nausea tend to appear early in treatment. Upper respiratory tract infections — colds, sore throats, and sinus congestion — are also reported more frequently in Jardiance users, though the exact mechanism is not fully understood.
Management tips about Joint Pain:
- For joint pain, over-the-counter pain relievers may help; report persistent or severe pain to your doctor
- Take Jardiance with food if nausea is a concern
- Practice good hand hygiene and avoid close contact with sick individuals to reduce infection risk
Serious but Rare Risks Worth Knowing
Two rare but serious complications deserve mention, even though they fall outside the “common” category:
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): A dangerous buildup of ketones in the blood. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and confusion. This can occur even when blood sugar appears normal (euglycemic DKA). Seek emergency care immediately if these symptoms appear.
- Fournier’s gangrene: A rare but life-threatening bacterial infection of the genital area. Any severe pain, swelling, redness, or fever in the genital region requires urgent evaluation.
These risks underscore why ongoing monitoring through endocrinology and diabetes care in Forest Hills, NY is so important — not just at the start of treatment, but throughout.
Why Ongoing Specialist Care Matters
Managing Jardiance side effects is not a one-time conversation. It requires regular check-ins, lab monitoring, and sometimes adjustments to your full medication regimen. Patients with diabetes often benefit from coordinated care that includes not just an endocrinologist, but also a podiatrist for foot health — especially since diabetic complications frequently affect the feet. Our detailed guide on diabetic foot care and preventing complications is a useful starting point.
Additionally, patients who have questions about how often to see a specialist will find our article on how often a diabetic should see an endocrinologist helpful for setting realistic expectations.
Hormone-related changes that accompany diabetes can also affect overall health in ways that go beyond blood sugar. If you are experiencing broader endocrine symptoms, our resource on hormone imbalance symptoms, causes, and expert treatments provides additional context.
Getting Expert Endocrinology and Diabetes Care in Forest Hills, NY
NYP Clinic — New York Preventive Health Center — offers comprehensive endocrinology and diabetes care in Forest Hills, NY with board-certified specialists available under one roof. The clinic is open seven days a week, including weekends, and walk-in primary care visits are welcome — a genuine advantage for busy Queens residents who cannot afford to wait weeks for an appointment.
Whether you are newly prescribed Jardiance, experiencing side effects, or simply due for a diabetes review, our team is here to help. You can book an appointment online or call us directly at (718) 997-7100. Visit us at 68-60 Austin Street, Store 10, Forest Hills, NY 11375.
FAQs
Can I stop taking Jardiance on my own if I experience side effects?
No. You should never stop a prescribed medication without first speaking to your doctor. Many Jardiance side effects — such as increased urination or mild yeast infections — can be managed without discontinuing the drug. Stopping abruptly may cause your blood sugar to rise and could affect other health conditions Jardiance is helping to manage, such as heart or kidney protection. Always contact your provider before making any changes to your regimen.
Are Jardiance side effects more common in women than in men?
Some are. Genital yeast infections (mycotic infections) occur significantly more often in women due to anatomical differences. UTIs are also more common in women overall. Men can experience genital fungal infections as well, but at lower rates. Both men and women are equally susceptible to side effects like dehydration, elevated cholesterol, and joint pain.
How long do most Jardiance side effects last?
Many side effects — particularly increased urination, mild nausea, and joint discomfort — tend to improve within the first few weeks as the body adjusts to the medication. Genital infections and UTIs may recur throughout treatment if preventive steps are not taken. Persistent or worsening symptoms should always be reported to your care team promptly.
Is Jardiance safe for older adults?
Jardiance can be used in older adults, but with greater caution. Older patients are at higher risk for volume depletion, dizziness, and falls due to low blood pressure. Kidney function also tends to decline with age, which can affect how well the drug works and how safely it can be used. Your doctor will assess your kidney function and overall health profile before prescribing Jardiance, and will monitor you more closely if you are over 65.
References
- American Diabetes Association. (2024). Standards of care in diabetes — 2024. Diabetes Care, 47(Suppl. 1). https://doi.org/10.2337/dc24-S009
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2023). SGLT2 inhibitors. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). National diabetes statistics report. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/data/statistics-report/index.html
- Zinman, B., Wanner, C., Lachin, J. M., et al. (2021). Empagliflozin, cardiovascular outcomes, and mortality in type 2 diabetes. New England Journal of Medicine, 373(22), 2117–2128. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa1504720