Last Updated: April 2025
Managing Type 2 diabetes often requires balancing multiple health priorities, from lowering blood sugar levels to protecting the heart and kidneys and even addressing weight concerns. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that diabetes affects 38.4 million people in the U.S., meaning a person’s choice of medication can significantly impact their overall health outcomes.
Two commonly prescribed medications for Type 2 diabetes are Jardiance and Ozempic, each with unique benefits and mechanisms. Deciding between these two can feel overwhelming, especially when their advantages depend on personal health conditions and treatment goals.
Below, we’ll discuss the key differences between Jardiance and Ozempic to help you make an informed decision in partnership with your healthcare provider.
What Is Jardiance?
Jardiance, or empagliflozin, is a daily oral medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. This class works by targeting how the kidneys process glucose. Specifically, Jardiance prevents the kidneys from reabsorbing glucose into the bloodstream, allowing it to be excreted through urine.
Beyond its ability to lower blood sugar levels, Jardiance has gained recognition for its cardiovascular and renal benefits. It’s FDA-approved to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death in adults with diabetes and heart disease. Additionally, it’s used to treat heart failure and slow the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD), conditions that frequently affect people with diabetes.
One of the most important factors is that Jardiance is also approved for children as young as 10, making it one of the limited diabetes medications available for younger populations.
What Is Ozempic?
Unlike Jardiance, Ozempic is a weekly injectable medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. Ozempic mimics the effects of the GLP-1 hormone, which plays a role in insulin secretion, glucose regulation, and appetite control. By slowing digestion and increasing feelings of fullness, Ozempic helps manage blood sugar levels and contributes to significant weight loss for many patients.
While Ozempic is primarily used to manage blood sugar in adults with Type 2 diabetes, it has also been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes. Though not yet FDA-approved for kidney protection, research suggests it may offer similar renal benefits, and as of January 2025, the FDA has approved it for use in Chronic Kidney Disease.
Key Differences Between Jardiance and Ozempic
When comparing Jardiance and Ozempic, it’s essential to consider their unique characteristics and benefits. Each offers specific advantages depending on individual health needs and treatment goals. We’ll explore how they differ in more detail.
Blood Sugar Control
Both medications are effective at lowering blood sugar levels, but Ozempic often outperforms Jardiance regarding A1C reduction. Studies show that, depending on the dose, Ozempic can reduce hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) by up to two percent, making it one of the most powerful options for managing blood sugar.
In comparison, Jardiance typically lowers A1C levels by about 1%. While this is still significant, it may not be sufficient for individuals requiring aggressive glucose control. That said, Jardiance’s benefits often extend beyond blood sugar management, making it an excellent choice for people with additional health concerns.
Weight Loss
For many people with Type 2 diabetes, weight loss is a critical component of their treatment plan. Ozempic stands out in this area. In clinical trials, participants using Ozempic lost an average of 15 to 20 percent of their body weight, which is significantly higher than other options available. This dual effect of controlling blood sugar and promoting weight loss makes Ozempic a popular option for those managing obesity alongside diabetes.
Jardiance can also lead to weight loss, but the results are more modest. On average, people lose four to six pounds after six months of use. However, combined with a diabetes-friendly diet and regular exercise, Jardiance can enhance weight management efforts.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Both medications provide cardiovascular benefits, but their scope differs. Jardiance is FDA-approved to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and to treat heart failure, even in people without diabetes. These features make it particularly valuable for individuals with heart-related conditions.
Ozempic, on the other hand, lowers the risk of major cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes. While its benefits are significant, it does not have the same benefits for people with heart failure.
Kidney Protection
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common complication of Type 2 diabetes, affecting nearly one in three people with the condition. Jardiance has emerged as a leader in protecting kidney health, slowing the progression of CKD, and reducing the risk of end-stage kidney disease. This effect makes it an excellent choice for individuals at high risk of renal complications.
Ozempic has been shown to offer similar benefits. The recent FDA approval for this indication will broaden Ozempic’s appeal, particularly for people managing both diabetes and CKD.
Side Effects and What to Expect
Understanding potential side effects is a crucial aspect of choosing the right medication for managing Type 2 diabetes. Here’s a closer look at what you might expect with Ozempic and Jardiance:
- Ozempic: Common side effects of Ozempic include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. These symptoms are most common when starting the medication or increasing the dose, as your body adjusts to the treatment. While they can be uncomfortable, these effects often diminish over time. More serious risks, though less frequent, include pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), gallbladder problems like gallstones, and a theoretical risk of thyroid tumors based on animal studies. Regular monitoring by your healthcare provider can help address any concerns early.
- Jardiance: Jardiance’s side effects primarily relate to its mechanism of action, which removes excess glucose through urine. This process can increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and genital yeast infections, particularly in women and uncircumcised men. Additionally, you may experience more frequent urination, which can sometimes lead to dehydration if fluid intake isn’t maintained. Serious, though rare, side effects include ketoacidosis, a potentially life-threatening condition caused by high acid levels in the blood. Recognizing early signs, such as nausea, abdominal pain, or confusion, and seeking immediate medical care is critical.
Both medications are generally well-tolerated when used under medical supervision, but discussing your medical history and potential risks with your healthcare provider is essential to ensure safe use.
Jardiance vs Ozempic: Which Medication Is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between Jardiance and Ozempic depends on your specific health needs and goals. If you’re seeking significant weight loss alongside blood sugar control, Ozempic may be the better option. However, if heart failure or chronic kidney disease is a concern, Jardiance offers unparalleled benefits in these areas.
Sometimes, your healthcare provider may recommend using both medications together to maximize their complementary benefits. This approach can comprehensively manage blood sugar, cardiovascular health, and kidney function.
Take the Next Step in Managing Your Diabetes
If you believe that Jardiance or Ozempic might fit your diabetes management plan, The RX Advocates can help make these medications more affordable. Navigating the high costs of prescription drugs shouldn’t be a barrier to your health.
Through our Patient Assistance Program, we work to cover some or even the entire, cost of your medication. Don’t let financial concerns stop you from accessing the care you need.
Contact us today at 844-559-8332 to learn how we can help you save on your medication and take control of your Type 2 diabetes. Let’s get started on making your treatment plan more accessible.
