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Research8 min readMarch 19, 2025
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.