Application of incretin mimetics and dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitors in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Approximately two thirds of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are unable to reach the hemoglobin A(1c) target set by the American Diabetes Association (HbA(1c) <7.0%). Therefore, T2DM continues to be a major public health concern. Incretin mimetics and dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitors are medications that have the potential to improve patients' glycemic control, as well as to result in beneficial socioeconomic effects. Research suggests that significant benefits are to be gained from incretin mimetics and dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitors, either one used as monotherapy or used together as combination therapy. However, the benefits and risks of these agents need to be evaluated more thoroughly, with emphasis on such adverse effects as edema, hypoglycemia, and weight gain.