Jardiance (empagliflozin) is a diabetes medication that has gained attention for its weight loss effects. But how does it compare to dedicated weight loss medications like Ozempic or Mounjaro? Here's what you need to know about Jardiance and weight loss.
The Short Answer: Yes, Jardiance Can Cause Weight Loss
Clinical studies show that Jardiance users typically lose between 2-4% of their body weight on average. For someone weighing 200 pounds, this translates to roughly 4-8 pounds. While this is modest compared to GLP-1 medications, it's a welcome benefit for many people taking Jardiance for diabetes.
Key Takeaway
Jardiance is not FDA-approved for weight loss—it's approved for type 2 diabetes and heart failure. However, weight loss is a common and well-documented side effect that many patients experience.
What is Jardiance?
Jardiance belongs to a class of medications called SGLT2 inhibitors (sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors). It's FDA-approved for:
- Type 2 diabetes management
- Reducing cardiovascular death risk in adults with type 2 diabetes and heart disease
- Heart failure treatment
- Chronic kidney disease
Other SGLT2 inhibitors include Farxiga (dapagliflozin), Invokana (canagliflozin), and Steglatro (ertugliflozin). They all work similarly and can cause comparable weight loss.
How Does Jardiance Cause Weight Loss?
Jardiance works through a completely different mechanism than GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or Mounjaro. Here's how it causes weight loss:
Blocks Glucose Reabsorption
Normally, your kidneys filter glucose from your blood and reabsorb it back into your body. Jardiance blocks this reabsorption by inhibiting the SGLT2 protein.
Excretes Glucose Through Urine
Instead of being reabsorbed, the glucose is eliminated through urination. This means you're literally peeing out calories—approximately 200-300 calories per day.
Creates a Caloric Deficit
This daily caloric loss, combined with the water weight lost from increased urination, results in gradual weight loss over time without requiring changes to appetite or eating habits.
Jardiance vs GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss
While Jardiance can help with weight loss, GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound are significantly more effective for this purpose. Here's how they compare:
| Medication | Average Weight Loss | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Jardiance | 2-4% | Glucose excretion |
| Ozempic | 5-10% | Appetite reduction (GLP-1) |
| Wegovy | 15-17% | Appetite reduction (GLP-1) |
| Mounjaro/Zepbound | 15-25% | Appetite reduction (GLP-1 + GIP) |
- Oral medication (no injections)
- Better insurance coverage
- Heart and kidney protection
- No nausea or GI side effects
- Generally more affordable
- Much greater weight loss (3-6x more)
- Reduces appetite and cravings
- FDA-approved for weight loss
- Changes relationship with food
- Once-weekly dosing
Potential Side Effects of Jardiance
While Jardiance doesn't cause the nausea commonly seen with GLP-1 medications, it does have its own side effects to be aware of:
Common Side Effects
- • Increased urination
- • Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- • Yeast infections (genital)
- • Thirst
- • Mild dehydration
Serious (Rare) Side Effects
- • Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
- • Fournier's gangrene (very rare)
- • Severe UTIs/kidney infections
- • Low blood pressure
- • Acute kidney injury
Important Warning
Jardiance is not appropriate for people with type 1 diabetes and should be used with caution in those with kidney problems. It can increase the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis even with normal blood sugar levels. Always discuss your full medical history with your doctor.
Can You Take Jardiance with GLP-1 Medications?
Yes, many people take Jardiance alongside GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or Mounjaro. This combination is actually becoming more common for people with type 2 diabetes who want both blood sugar control and significant weight loss. The medications work through different mechanisms and can complement each other.
However, combining medications should only be done under medical supervision. Your doctor will monitor for:
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Dehydration
- Kidney function
- Overall tolerability
Is Jardiance Right for You?
Jardiance may be a good option if you:
- Have type 2 diabetes and want modest weight loss as a bonus
- Prefer an oral medication over injections
- Have heart disease or heart failure
- Can't tolerate GLP-1 medications due to nausea
- Are looking for cardiovascular or kidney protection
However, if weight loss is your primary goal, GLP-1 medications like Semaglutide or Tirzepatide will be significantly more effective. Check out our provider reviews to explore your options for GLP-1 treatment.
The Bottom Line
Jardiance does cause weight loss—typically 2-4% of body weight—but it's not a weight loss medication. It's best suited for people with type 2 diabetes, heart failure, or kidney disease who may also benefit from modest weight reduction. For significant weight loss, GLP-1 medications remain the gold standard with 3-6 times more weight loss on average.