Managing type 2 diabetes requires choosing the right medication, and Jardiance and Farxiga are among the most commonly prescribed drugs for this condition. Both belong to a class of drugs called SGLT2 inhibitors, which help lower blood sugar by preventing glucose reabsorption in the kidneys. Instead of being absorbed back into the bloodstream, excess glucose is excreted through urine, reducing overall blood sugar levels.
While these medications are similar in how they work, some key differences can affect which one is the better option for you. When comparing Jardiance vs Farxiga, factors such as effectiveness, cardiovascular benefits, kidney protection, side effects, and cost come into play.
With that in mind, let’s explore how these two medications compare, helping you determine the best option for your diabetes management plan.
How Jardiance and Farxiga Work
Both Jardiance (empagliflozin) and Farxiga (dapagliflozin) target SGLT2 (sodium-glucose co-transporter 2), a protein in the kidneys that normally reabsorbs glucose into the bloodstream. By blocking this protein, the medications cause the body to excrete more glucose through urine, lowering blood sugar levels effectively.
In addition to improving blood sugar control, these medications offer additional health benefits, such as:
- Promoting weight loss by eliminating excess glucose.
- Lowering blood pressure due to the diuretic effect of increased urination.
- Protecting heart and kidney health, which is especially important for people with diabetes.
Despite their similarities, there are notable differences in their approval for certain conditions, their specific effects on heart and kidney health, and how they are tolerated by patients.
Jardiance vs Farxiga: Key Differences
While both medications effectively lower blood sugar and offer heart and kidney benefits, their specific strengths vary. Understanding these differences can help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions based on individual health needs.
Effectiveness for Blood Sugar Control
Both Jardiance and Farxiga are effective at reducing HbA1c levels, a key marker of long-term blood sugar control. Clinical studies show that both medications lead to similar reductions in HbA1c, with a decrease of about 0.7% to 1.0% over six months of use.
Although Jardiance may offer a slightly stronger effect on lowering blood sugar in some patients, the difference is not significant enough to make it a deciding factor. Both medications are excellent choices for managing blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes.
Cardiovascular Benefits
A major advantage of Jardiance is its FDA approval for reducing cardiovascular death in patients with diabetes and established heart disease. Research has shown that Jardiance lowers the risk of heart-related fatalities more than other SGLT2 inhibitors, making it a preferred option for people with heart disease.
Farxiga, on the other hand, is particularly effective at reducing hospitalization for heart failure. Unlike Jardiance, Farxiga is approved for use in patients with heart failure, even if they do not have diabetes. This makes it a preferred option for people who are at risk of or already experiencing heart failure.
Kidney Protection
Diabetes is one of the leading causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and both medications provide kidney protection. However, there are some differences in how they are used for this purpose.
Farxiga is FDA-approved for treating chronic kidney disease, even in non-diabetic patients. It can slow the progression of CKD and reduce the risk of kidney failure.
Jardiance also offers kidney protection but is not officially approved for treating CKD in non-diabetics. If kidney protection is a top priority, Farxiga may be the better choice.
Side Effects Comparison
Both medications share similar side effects since they belong to the same SGLT2 inhibitor class. The most common side effects include:
- Frequent urination, as excess glucose is excreted through urine.
- Genital or urinary tract infections, due to increased glucose in urine creating a favorable environment for bacteria and fungi.
- Dehydration and low blood pressure, especially in patients who do not drink enough fluids.
Farxiga has been associated with a slightly higher risk of genital infections, while Jardiance may lead to a greater drop in blood pressure in some individuals. However, both medications are generally well-tolerated when taken as prescribed.
Farxiga vs Jardiance Cost
For many patients, cost is a crucial factor when choosing between Jardiance and Farxiga. Both are brand-name medications, meaning they do not yet have generic versions available.
The Farxiga vs Jardiance cost is similar, with prices typically ranging between $500 and $600 per month without insurance. Some insurance plans may favor one medication over the other, leading to lower out-of-pocket costs depending on your coverage.
For those looking for cheaper alternatives, some Farxiga alternatives or other SGLT2 inhibitors might be available at a lower price with insurance coverage.
Which Is Better: Farxiga vs Jardiance?
While both medications support heart and kidney health, one may be a better fit based on your medical history and treatment goals. Here’s a closer look at when to choose each option.
When to Choose Jardiance
Jardiance is a better option for patients who:
- Have a history of cardiovascular disease and need strong protection against heart-related death.
- Want a medication that provides slightly better blood sugar control.
- Are not at high risk for heart failure but need a trusted SGLT2 inhibitor for diabetes management.
When to Choose Farxiga
Farxiga may be the better choice for those who:
- Have chronic kidney disease (CKD) and need medication specifically approved for this condition.
- Are at risk for or currently have heart failure and need protection against hospitalization.
- Have insurance coverage that favors Farxiga over Jardiance, making it more affordable.
Since both medications are highly effective, the choice between Jardiance and Farxiga depends on your specific health needs and insurance coverage.
Takeaways
Choosing between Jardiance and Farxiga depends on your specific health needs. If you need cardiovascular protection, Jardiance is often the preferred choice. However, if you require chronic kidney disease treatment or heart failure prevention, Farxiga might be the better option.
The cost of Jardiance and Farxiga is similar, but insurance coverage can impact affordability. While no generic versions exist, discussing alternative SGLT2 inhibitors with your doctor may help you find a cost-effective solution.
Your decision should be based on your medical history, doctor’s advice, and insurance coverage, ensuring that you choose the best option for your diabetes care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which is better for weight loss: Farxiga or Jardiance?
Both Jardiance and Farxiga promote modest weight loss, typically in the range of 5–7 pounds over several months. There is no significant difference in weight loss between the two.
Is there a cheaper alternative to Jardiance or Farxiga?
As of now, no generic versions of Jardiance or Farxiga are available. However, some other SGLT2 inhibitors, like Invokana (canagliflozin), may be more affordable depending on your insurance plan.
Can I switch from Jardiance to Farxiga?
Switching between Jardiance and Farxiga is possible but should be done under a doctor’s supervision. While they work similarly, differences in heart and kidney benefits should be considered before making a switch.
