Treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in children and adolescents.

The treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is directed at decreasing insulin resistance and increasing insulin secretion. alpha-Glucosidase inhibitors slow carbohydrate absorption, resulting in reduced postprandial hyperglycemia; thiazolidinediones increase insulin sensitivity, especially in muscle and adipocytes; metformin decreases hepatic gluconeogenesis; sulfonylureas result in prolonged increases in insulin secretion; and meglitinide causes rapid, short-lived increases in insulin secretion. A survey of 130 pediatric endocrinology practices in the USA and Canada indicated that 48% of children with type 2 DM were treated with insulin and 44% with one or more oral hypoglycemic agents (OHA). Of those treated with OHA, 71% received metformin, 46% sulfonylureas, 9% thiazolidinediones and 4% meglitinide. Similarly, in the three university-based diabetes centers in Florida, 50% of the children with type 2 DM were treated with OHA. Treatment is based on symptoms at presentation. Patients identified on routine testing are often treated with exercise and diet alone. Those who are mildly symptomatic at onset are often started on OHA. Patients with substantial ketosis, ketoacidosis or markedly elevated blood glucose levels are initially treated with insulin, followed by a tapering of the dose and the addition of an OHA after blood glucose control is established and symptoms subside. There are no studies of the efficacy or compliance with treatment for type 2 DM in adolescents. Treatment is currently based on the clinical experience with adults. Controlled clinical trials in children are essential.