Vnitr Lek 2019, 65(4):273-278 | DOI: 10.36290/vnl.2019.046

Strategy and tactics of treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Milan Kvapil

Interní klinika 2. LF UK a FN Motol, Praha

The results of randomized double-blind studies provide scientifically accurate data on the efficacy of antidiabetic drugs. With the widening understanding of heterogeneity of the group of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and the broadening possibilities of interventions available, a differentiated approach to therapy is now accentuated. From the perspective of pathophysiology, 8-10 different disorders have been described which contribute to the occurrence of hyperglycemia, but they cannot be quantified in common practice. However, it is possible to evaluate the amount of insulin secretion (C-peptide), the presence or severity of insulin resistance (triacylglycerols), glomerular filtration and, of course, patient compliance. The strategic goal of treatment of diabetes mellitus is to reduce the risk of late complications, both specific and non-specific (atherosclerotic), and if they arise, then slowing-down of their progression. All of this as a means of reducing mortality and improving quality of life. The tactics of therapy for type 2 diabetes mellitus must first of all be chosen individually. We bear in mind the general circumstances (life expectancy, comorbidities, age, compliance, social background, type of work) and specific characteristics of the current development of diabetes (the dominant nature of metabolic disorder, the level of preservation of insulin secretion or response to prandial stimulation, presence and progression of complications). A timely combination of 2 or more antidiabetic drugs targeting individual pathophysiological mechanisms can be considered useful.

Keywords: antidiabetics; compliance; therapy failure; type 2 diabetes mellitus

Received: August 30, 2018; Accepted: January 31, 2019; Published: April 1, 2019  Show citation