Novel Therapies for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a progressive disorder caused by a combination of insulin resistance and β cell dysfunction. The role of new hormones and systems in maintaining blood glucose homeostasis has recently been recognized. This recognition has led to the development of several novel classes of medications, including the incretin mimetic agents (glucagon like polypeptide-1 analogs and dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitors), the amylin analog and the endocannabinoid-1 receptor blocker. This review looks at these new agents in terms of their mode of action, pharmacokinetics and use in clinical practice. The new agents offer treatment options in select adult patients now, however, the efficacy and the safety has to be evaluated thoroughly by long term studies before the application to pediatric patients.