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Does Jardiance Cause Weight Loss?
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Research8 min readApril 19, 2026

Does Jardiance Cause Weight Loss?

Examining Jardiance as a weight loss medication. How SGLT2 inhibitors compare to GLP-1s and what results to expect.

By Med Consumer Watch Team
Jardiance (empagliflozin) is a diabetes medication that can cause modest weight loss. Here's how it compares to GLP-1 medications and what to expect.

How Jardiance Works

The mechanism: • SGLT2 inhibitor class medication • Works by blocking glucose reabsorption in kidneys • Causes excess glucose to be excreted in urine • Results in calorie loss (about 200-300 calories/day) • Not primarily a weight loss medication

Weight Loss Results

What studies show:
  • Average weight loss: 2-3% of body weight
  • Most loss occurs in first 6 months
  • Effects plateau after initial period
  • Works primarily through calorie excretion
  • No appetite suppression effect

Jardiance weight loss is modest compared to GLP-1 medications but can be meaningful for diabetes management.

Jardiance vs GLP-1 Medications

How they compare: • Weight loss: GLP-1s produce 3-5x more weight loss • Mechanism: Jardiance excretes calories; GLP-1s reduce appetite • Blood sugar: Both improve glucose control • Heart benefits: Both have cardiovascular benefits • Side effects: Different profiles (UTIs with Jardiance; GI with GLP-1s)

Who Might Benefit

Jardiance may be a good fit if: • You have type 2 diabetes • GLP-1 medications aren't tolerated • You have heart failure (Jardiance approved for this) • You want modest weight loss with diabetes control • GI side effects of GLP-1s are problematic

Important Considerations

Be aware of: • Increased urinary tract infections • Genital yeast infections more common • Risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (rare) • Can cause dehydration • Not FDA-approved specifically for weight loss

Jardiance is not a substitute for GLP-1 medications if significant weight loss is your primary goal.

The Bottom Line

Jardiance does cause modest weight loss (2-3%) through a different mechanism than GLP-1 medications. It's a good option for people with diabetes who need glucose control with some weight benefit, but GLP-1 medications produce significantly more weight loss. Discuss with your provider which medication best fits your health goals.

Sources & References

  • FDA - Jardiance Prescribing Information
  • Diabetes Care - SGLT2 Inhibitor Studies

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your health or medications. Individual experiences may vary.

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