At a glance
Empagliflozin is an oral, prescription-only medication that belongs to the SGLT2 inhibitor family. In Australia it is prescribed mainly to lower blood glucose in adults and older children with type 2 diabetes and to reduce certain cardiovascular and heart failure outcomes. This page summarises how it is used, typical strengths, safety pointers, secondary options, indicative australian price levelsn dollars in addition to the regulatory framework for access.
Primary facts
- Active compound: empagliflozin
- Main applications: management of type 2 diabetes; reduction in cardiovascular death among patients with established cardiac disease; lowering risk of hospitalisation for heart failure
- Common tablet strengths available: 10 mg and 25 mg
- Not authorised for treatment of type 1 diabetes
Move over to quick links dosing, indirect effects, optional choices or public pricing.
Uses and approved signs that point to
Empagliflozin lowers blood glucose by causing the kidneys to excrete excess glucose into the urine. In clinical practice in Australia it is typically considered for:
- As an add-on to lifestyle measures for adults and children aged 10 years and older with type 2 diabetes where further glycaemic control is required
- Reducing the risk of cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease
- Lowering the chance of death or hospital admission from heart failure in adults with impaired cardiac function
It is not indicated for type 1 diabetes. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss with your clinician; see safe operation through precautions and health risks that preclude therapy to furnish guidance and support.
Dosing regimen and consumption method
Follow the dose and schedule prescribed by your healthcare professional. Clinicians tailor the regimen based on treatment response and kidney function. Below are general recommendations only; do not change your treatment without medical advice.
- Typical administration: once daily, commonly in the morning; may be taken with or without food. Aim to take it at the same time each day.
- Data surveillance: regular blood glucose checks and periodic renal function tests are commonly advised. Ketone testing may be suggested if you feel unwell or have high glucose readings.
- Fluid balance: the drug can increase urine output; maintain adequate hydration unless directed otherwise.
If your prescriber alters the dose, follow the new instructions exactly. For what to do if you miss a dose see forgot to take a dose protocol and tips.
Emergency safety measures to consider before starting
Before therapy is given begins, tell your prescriber about current or past medical conditions, especially:
- Repeated urinary tract or bladder infections
- Frequent genital fungal infections
- Painful or altered pancreas or history of pancreatic procedures
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Recent significant dietary changes, reduced calorie intake or very low salt diets
- Liver problems or impaired kidney function
- Advanced age, for example 65 years or older, which may increase risk of dehydration or falls
If pregnancy occurs while taking empagliflozin, contact your healthcare provider promptly to discuss stopping the medicine and switching to a safer a different path. To lessen the chance of dizziness from low blood pressure, rise slowly from sitting or lying positions and avoid excessive alcohol.
Medical contrasymptoms
Do not use empagliflozin if any of the following apply:
- Known hypersensitivity to empagliflozin or any ingredient in the product
- Severe renal impairment or patients who are on dialysis
- Use during the second or third trimester of pregnancy
Breastfeeding is generally not advised while taking empagliflozin. If these statements apply to you, discuss other treatment options with your prescriber or see a backup option pharmacotherapies and related medications.
Possible negative effects and when to talk to a health care professional
Get prompt medical attention for difficulty breathing signs of a severe allergic reaction such as widespread rash, difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.
Pivotal consequences requiring prompt care
- Severe genital infection with a rapid worsening course: intense burning, itching, abnormal discharge, pain, swelling, fever or feeling generally unwell
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia): symptoms may include a severe headache, hunger, sweating, tremor, dizziness, fast heart rate, confusion or irritability
- Dehydration: marked thirst, reduced urine output, lightheadedness or confusion
- Ketoacidosis: nausea, vomiting, belly pain, extreme fatigue, breathing difficulty or altered mental state; note that ketoacidosis can occur with only mildly raised blood glucose
- Possible bladder infection signs: painful or frequent urination, blood in urine, pain in the pelvic or flank area
More common, less severe reactions
- Chronic bladder infections
- Genital yeast infections such as vaginal irritation or discharge
If any symptoms persist or worry you, contact your doctor or pharmacist for assessment. Review key safety protective steps to decrease the likelihood of adverse outcomes.
Drug the dynamics of interaction guidance
Tell your prescriber and pharmacist about all medicines, vitamins and supplements you take. Distinctive encounters include:
- Insulin and insulin secretagogues (for example sulfonylureas): may increase the risk of hypoglycaemia and might require dose adjustment
- Diuretics: combining with diuretics can raise the chance of dehydration and symptomatic low blood pressure
Your clinician may advise additional monitoring or changes to other medications when empagliflozin is started or stopped.
Not taken at scheduled time protocol
When a dose is forgotten, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. If the next dose is due soon, skip the i failed to take a dose and continue your regular plan. Do not take extra pills to make up for a i failed to take a dose.
Actions required during an a non fatal overdose items
If an taking an overdose is suspected with the addition of the person is unwell, for example fainting or having trouble breathing, call emergency services immediately. In Australia you may also contact the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 for specialist advice and instructions.
Proper proper a storage locker can hold tools and supplies. guidance
- Keep at room temperature, away from direct heat and excessive moisture
- Store out of reach of children and animals
- Do not use after the expiry date shown on the packaging
Choice other selections and medicines that are similar
Empagliflozin is one of several SGLT2 inhibitors. Depending on your clinical picture, kidney function and cardiovascular status, other options may be considered:
Other agents in the SGLT2 inhibitor class
- Dapagliflozin (Forxiga): used for type 2 diabetes and heart failure markers that point to
- Ertugliflozin (Steglatro): indicated for blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes
Medicines from different classes
- Metformin: commonly used first-line oral therapy for type 2 diabetes
- GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide or dulaglutide, which may aid glucose control and weight reduction
- DPP-4 inhibitors like sitagliptin or linagliptin
- Sulfonylureas such as gliclazide or glipizide
- Various insulin preparations for basal and mealtime control
Selection of therapy is personalised and considers cardiovascular benefit, kidney function, hypoglycaemia risk, weight effects and cost. For cost comparisons, refer to the subscription pricing page. pricing plan and for how to obtain medicines legally see lawful access.
Rough costs in Australia (AUD)
Actual retail costs vary with brand, pack size, pharmacy and whether you are entitled to a subsidy. The estimates below are indicative for about one month supply:
- Private prescription (no subsidy): approximately AUD 80 to AUD 130 per month depending on brand and retailer
- PBS general co-payment: roughly AUD 31 per script (subject to change and eligibility)
- PBS concession co-payment: typically around AUD 7 to AUD 8 per script
Comparatively, dapagliflozin private prices are often in a similar range, while older agents like metformin are considerably cheaper. PBS listing and whether you meet clinical criteria will strongly affect out of pocket costs. Check with your local pharmacist for current prices and subsidy eligibility.
Australia guide to legal clearance for access guidelines and information
- Classification: empagliflozin is a Schedule 4 Prescription Only Medicine in Australia
- Prescription requirement: you must have a valid prescription from an Australian-registered prescriber to obtain it at a pharmacy
- TGA approval: products must be approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration to be marketed in Australia
- Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS): subsidised supply may be available for eligible patients and approved clues that suggest when criteria are met
- Pediatric use: may be prescribed for patients aged 10 years and older for type 2 diabetes subject to product information and clinician judgement
- Driving and work safety: while empagliflozin alone has low direct hypoglycaemia risk, the risk rises if combined with insulin or sulfonylureas; follow medical advice about driving and hazardous activities
- Importation rules: personal importation of prescription medicines is limited; comply with TGA and Australian Border Force requirements before importing
Always use empagliflozin under the care of an appropriate healthcare professional and in accordance with Australian law and clinical coaching.
Added remarks
This information is general and does not replace individualized medical advice. Use it to inform conversations with your doctor or pharmacist. For product specific details consult the Consumer Medicine Information leaflet provided with your medicine or ask your pharmacist.
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