Empagliflozin is a sodium glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitor. SGLT2 co-transporters are responsible for reabsorption of glucose from the glomerular filtrate in the kidney. The glucuretic effect resulting from SGLT2 inhibition reduces renal absorption and lowers the renal threshold for glucose, resulting in increased glucose excretion. Additionally, it contributes to reduced hyperglycaemia, assists weight loss, and reduces blood pressure.

Empagliflozin is indicated in:

• As an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
• To reduce the risk of cardiovascular death in adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and established cardiovascular disease.

The recommended dose of Empagliflozin is 10 mg once daily, taken in the morning, with or without food. In patients tolerating Empagliflozin, the dose may be increased to 25 mg once daily. In patients with volume depletion, correcting this condition prior to initiation of Empagliflozin is recommended.

Empagliflozin is contraindicated in patients with history of serious hypersensitivity reaction to Empagliflozin or any of its ingredients, severe renal impairment, end-stage renal disease, or dialysis.

The most common adverse reactions associated with Empagliflozin are urinary tract infections and female genital mycotic infections. Others common side effects includes dehydration, hypotension, weakness, dizziness and increased thirstiness.

Overdose Effects

In the event of an overdose with Empagliflozin the usual supportive measures (e.g., remove unabsorbed material from the gastrointestinal tract, perform clinical monitoring, and institute supportive treatment) should be employed. Removal of Empagliflozin by hemodialysis has not been studied.

Assessment of renal function is recommended prior to initiation of Empagliflozin and periodically thereafter. Empagliflozin should not initiated in patients with an eGFR less than 45 ml/min/1.73 m². No dose adjustment is needed in patients with an eGFR greater than or equal to 45 ml/min/1.73 m².

Pregnancy & Lactation

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Empagliflozin in pregnant women. Empagliflozin should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known if Empagliflozin is excreted in human milk. It is not recommended when breastfeeding.