Is There a Generic for Jardiance?

Not many people realize that a generic version of Jardiance exists, and it could save you hundreds of dollars each month. The catch? Finding affordable generic empagliflozin in the United States isn’t straightforward, and navigating your options can feel overwhelming when you’re simply trying to afford the medication your doctor recommends.

If your doctor has prescribed Jardiance for type 2 diabetes, heart failure, or chronic kidney disease, you deserve to know all your options without feeling priced out of effective treatment. The good news is that generic empagliflozin is available, and with the right information, you can access it affordably.

Here’s what you need to know:

Yes, there is a generic for Jardiance, and your US doctor can write your prescription for it by its generic name, empagliflozin. The generic contains the same active ingredient found in brand-name Jardiance tablets and is available in the same common strengths (10 mg and 25 mg), designed to provide the same blood sugar and cardio-renal benefits as the brand.

In the United States, generic empagliflozin was approved in August 2014 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, it isn’t widely marketed yet. As a result, most local pharmacies still only stock brand-name Jardiance and charge brand-name prices.

Canadian and international partner pharmacies can legally source generic empagliflozin from regulated manufacturers abroad. As a result, patients in the US can often access the generic through licensed Canadian mail-order services with a valid US prescription.

How does a Canadian pharmacy help you save?

By filling your prescription as generic empagliflozin instead of brand-name Jardiance, a Canadian pharmacy can typically cut your out-of-pocket cost significantly compared with many US retail pharmacies.

The process is straightforward. Your US prescriber prescribes empagliflozin (10 mg or 25 mg), and you upload or send the prescription to the Canadian pharmacy. The medication is then shipped directly to your US address from a CIPA-certified or similarly regulated dispensing pharmacy.

If you tell the dose your provider prescribed (10 mg or 25 mg) and how many tablets you use per month, a Canadian pharmacy can usually quote exact generic pricing and expected savings versus brand Jardiance in the US.

Buy a pack of 100 tablets for $0.78 per tablet from a Canadian pharmacy through DoctorSolve.com.

What is Jardiance?

Jardiance is the brand name for empagliflozin, a prescription medicine used to help adults with type 2 diabetes [2]. It belongs to a group of drugs called SGLT2 inhibitors. Jardiance was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on August 1, 2014. Since then, it has received several additional approvals for expanded uses, including:

• 2016: To reduce the risk of cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease [3].
• 2022: To reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure in adults (regardless of ejection fraction) [4].
• 2023: For the treatment of adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) [5].

How does Jardiance work?

Jardiance is primarily prescribed to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It works by helping your kidneys remove excess glucose from your bloodstream through urine. 

Key Takeaway – Jardiance (empagliflozin) is an SGLT2 inhibitor that lowers blood sugar in type 2 diabetes by causing the kidneys to remove excess glucose through urine. Since its 2014 FDA approval for diabetes, Jardiance has gained additional approvals for reducing cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization (2016-2022), and for treating chronic kidney disease (2023).

Why do doctors recommend Jardiance?

Multiple large-scale clinical trials have demonstrated Jardiance’s effectiveness. In the landmark EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial, which followed over 7,000 patients with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, Jardiance showed remarkable results. Patients taking the medication experienced a 38% reduction in cardiovascular death compared to those taking a placebo.

The study also found a 35% reduction in hospitalization for heart failure. For blood sugar management, clinical trials showed that Jardiance reduced hemoglobin A1C by approximately 0.7% to 0.8% when used alone, and even more when combined with other diabetes medications. Patients also experienced modest weight loss, typically around 4 to 6 pounds over 24 weeks—a welcome benefit for many people with type 2 diabetes.

The EMPEROR trials further confirmed Jardiance’s heart failure benefits. The studies showed significant reductions in hospitalizations and improvements in quality of life for patients with heart failure, regardless of whether they had reduced or preserved ejection fraction.

Healthcare providers frequently prescribe Jardiance because it addresses multiple health concerns at once. Cardiologists and endocrinologists particularly value its proven cardiovascular benefits [6], which set it apart from many other diabetes medications. The fact that it can simultaneously manage blood sugar, support heart health, and promote modest weight loss [2] makes it an attractive option for patients with type 2 diabetes who are at risk for heart complications.

Doctors also appreciate that Jardiance doesn’t cause dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) [2] when used alone, which gives both patients and providers greater peace of mind. The medication’s once-daily dosing also improves adherence [2], as patients find it easier to remember and incorporate it into their daily routine.

Compared to many diabetes medications, Jardiance tends to cause fewer and less serious side effects. The most common side effects are urinary tract infections and yeast infections, which occur because the medication increases glucose in the urine [2]. These are typically mild and treatable.

 

Key Takeaway – Jardiance has demonstrated strong clinical effectiveness across multiple health outcomes. Doctors frequently prescribe it because it addresses blood sugar control, heart protection, and weight management simultaneously.

Jardiance prices in the United States

Jardiance is expensive in the US. Prices vary by pharmacy, but most patients pay high costs without insurance coverage.

Typical US pharmacy prices

30-day supply (30 tablets)

• Most major pharmacy chains: approximately $750
• Some warehouse and discount retailers: approximately $850

90-day supply (90 tablets)

• Most major pharmacy chains: approximately $2,200
• Some warehouse and discount retailers: approximately $2,500

This means patients may pay $750 to $850 per month, or $9,000 to $10,200 per year.

Why is this a concern?

High ongoing costs

Jardiance is taken once daily for ongoing management of type 2 diabetes, heart failure, or chronic kidney disease. For most patients, this is a long-term medication, making the annual cost a significant financial burden.

Insurance coverage is uncertain

Even if your insurance currently covers Jardiance:

• Coverage can change without notice
• Insurance companies may switch to covering only cheaper alternatives
• You may face high copays or deductibles

Many Americans cannot afford their prescribed medications at these prices.

Lower-cost options exist

Canadian pharmacy prices

Licensed Canadian pharmacies offer significantly lower prices for the same medication:

• 30 tablets of Jardiance: approximately $130
• Savings: up to 83% compared to US retail prices

Generic empagliflozin

A generic version is available internationally and may cost even less. See the section below for more information about generic options.

What you can do

• Compare prices at different US pharmacies
• Ask your doctor about generic empagliflozin
• Explore manufacturer discount programs or patient assistance programs
• Consider ordering from a licensed Canadian pharmacy with your valid US prescription

Key Takeaway – Jardiance costs $750-$850 per month at US pharmacies (over $9,000 annually), creating a significant financial burden for patients who need long-term treatment. Licensed Canadian pharmacies offer the same medication for approximately $130 per month—up to 83% savings compared to US retail prices.

Why Is Jardiance So Expensive in the US?

The high cost of Jardiance in the US comes from patents, insurance rules, and limited price controls, all of which keep diabetes medication prices elevated.

1. Brand Exclusivity and Patents: Jardiance (empagliflozin) was approved in 2014. It remains protected by multiple US patents and regulatory exclusivities. This gives pharmaceutical companies a long period of effective monopoly in the American market.
2. US Pricing Rules: Unlike Canada and most other high-income countries, the US does not have a national system that directly regulates or negotiates most brand-name drug prices. This means pharmaceutical companies can set list prices largely as they choose.
3. High List Price and Markups: The manufacturer reports a current US list price of roughly $600+ for a 30‑day supply of Jardiance, and typical retail cash prices at chain pharmacies often fall in the $600–$750 per month range before any discounts.

Cheaper Alternatives to Jardiance for Diabetes Management

Yes, there are several cheaper alternatives to Jardiance that you can consider for managing diabetes. Here are a few you should know about:

Tradjenta

Tradjenta is a once-daily tablet used along with diet and exercise to help adults with type 2 diabetes lower their blood sugar by naturally helping the body increase insulin when it’s needed after meals.

You can buy 90 tablets of brand-name Tradjenta from a Canadian pharmacy through DoctorSolve.com for about $277.00, or under $3.08 per tablet.

Invokana

Invokana is a daily prescription medication for Type 2 diabetes that works by helping your kidneys pass excess sugar from your bloodstream out of your body through your urine. In addition to managing blood sugar, it has been proven to reduce the risk of serious heart failure, cardiovascular events, and kidney failure.

You can buy 30 tablets of brand-name Invokana from a Canadian pharmacy through DoctorSolve.com for about $99.00, or under $3.30 per tablet.

Farxiga

Farxiga is a once-daily pill that works by instructing your kidneys to remove excess sugar from your body through your urine. It is prescribed to lower blood sugar in people with Type 2 Diabetes and is also approved to protect your heart and kidneys from further damage.

You can buy 84 tablets of brand-name Farxiga from a Canadian pharmacy through DoctorSolve.com for about $244.00, or under $2.90 per tablet.

Janumet

Janumet is a combination pill that helps adults with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar. It combines two different medicines: one that helps your body release more insulin, and another that helps your body use that insulin more effectively.

You can buy 56 tablets of brand-name Janumet from a Canadian pharmacy through DoctorSolve.com for about $87.00, or under $1.55 per tablet.

Glucotrol

Glucotrol is an oral medication prescribed for people with Type 2 diabetes that works by stimulating your pancreas to release more of your body’s natural insulin, helping to lower and better control your blood sugar levels throughout the day.

You can buy 84 tablets of brand-name Glucotrol from a Canadian pharmacy through DoctorSolve.com for about $42.00, or under $0.50 per tablet.

Rybelsus

Rybelsus is a once-daily pill for type 2 diabetes that works by mimicking a natural hormone to help your pancreas release insulin when your blood sugar is high and also signals the brain to reduce appetite.

You can buy 30 tablets of brand-name Rybelsus from a Canadian pharmacy through DoctorSolve.com for about $310.00, or under $10.33 per tablet.

References

• FDA.gov. Jardiance prescribing information. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/204629s033lbl.pdf
• National Library of Medicine. Sodium-Glucose Transport Protein 2 (SGLT2) Inhibitors. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK576405/
• National Library of Medicine. Clinical Review Report: Empagliflozin (Jardiance). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534172/
• Jama Network. Medicare Cuts Cost of 10 Common Drugs Covered by Part D. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/2823805
• National Library of Medicine. Pharmacoeconomic Review Report: Empagliflozin (Jardiance). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK533799/
• CMS.gov. Transcript: Jardiance, November 8, 2023 Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program Patient-Focused Listening Session. https://www.cms.gov/files/document/jardiance-transcript-110823.pdf
• Pdab.maryland.gov. Jardiance (empaglifozin)-Dossier. https://pdab.maryland.gov/Documents/Dossiers/July%2023,%202025/JARDIANCE%20DOSSIER.2025.07.23.1100.V2.1.FINAL%20%281%29.pdf
• FDA.gov. Tradjenta prescribing information. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/201280lbl.pdf
• FDA.gov. Invokana prescribing information. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/204042s040lbl.pdf
• FDA.gov. Janumet prescribing information. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/202293s026lbl.pdf
• FDA.gov. Glucotrol prescribing information. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/022044s022lbl.pdf
• FDA.gov. Rybelsus prescribing information. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/017783s019lbl.pdf
• FDA.gov. Highlights of prescribing information. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2024/213051s018lbl.pdf
• CMS.gov. Pharmaceutical Manufacturer Patient Assistance Program Information. https://www.cms.gov/medicare/coverage/prescription-drug-coverage/patient-assistance-program
• Boehringeringelheim.com. Sign up for Savings. https://patient.boehringer-ingelheim.com/us/products/jardiance/type-2-diabetes/savings
• National Library of Medicine. A comparison of brand-name drug prices between Canadian-based Internet pharmacies and major U.S. drug chain pharmacies
• . https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16172438/
• Health Canada. Choosing a safe online pharmacy. https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/topics/buying-using-drug-health-products-safely/safe-use-online-pharmacies.html