Can I take Empagliflozin and Fibre supplements together?

Why this happens

Fibre supplements (like psyllium husk or methylcellulose) work by absorbing water and adding bulk to the digestive system. This can physically trap drug molecules or slow down the time it takes for the stomach to empty, which may interfere with how well empagliflozin is absorbed into the bloodstream.

What you should do

To be safe, try to take your empagliflozin at least 1 hour before or 2 to 4 hours after taking a fibre supplement. You should also monitor your blood sugar levels regularly. If you notice your readings are consistently higher after starting a fibre supplement, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

Important precautions

Dehydration and Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

You must stop taking empagliflozin and seek urgent medical help if you become very unwell, lose your appetite, or have persistent vomiting/diarrhoea. This is to prevent a rare but serious condition called ketoacidosis, which can occur even if your blood sugar levels are normal.

Fournier’s gangrene - empagliflozin

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pain, tenderness, redness, or swelling in the genital or anal area, accompanied by fever or a general feeling of being unwell.

Intestinal obstruction

You must take fibre supplements with a large glass of water (at least 200ml). Taking them without enough fluid can cause the supplement to swell and block your throat or bowel.

Foot ulcers

Check your feet regularly and tell your doctor immediately if you develop any sores, ulcers, or infections, as empagliflozin may increase the risk of lower limb amputations if foot care is neglected.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking empagliflozin. Alcohol can increase the risk of a serious condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and can also increase the risk of dehydration and low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia).

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol when taking these supplements. Alcohol can contribute to dehydration, which increases the risk of the supplement causing constipation or a bowel blockage.

Water and fluids

It is essential to drink plenty of water and stay well-hydrated. Empagliflozin works by removing sugar through your urine, which increases the amount of fluid you lose. This can lead to dehydration and low blood pressure if you do not drink enough fluids.

General food intake

Fibre supplements can affect how your body absorbs other medicines. It is usually recommended to take other medicines at least 1 hour before or 2 to 4 hours after taking a fibre supplement to ensure they work correctly.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.