Introduction: The role of the thiazolidinediones in the cardiovascular risk management of type 2 diabetes

Abstract

Scope: This article serves as an introductory overview to this supplement which covers type 2 diabetes as an atherosclerotic disease, the evidence base for treatment of the various vascular risk factors, and provides a detailed appraisal of the potential for thiazolidinediones to play a major role in overall diabetes management, not just for glycaemia, but also from the point of view of cardiovascular disease. Conclusion: We are clearly entering into an extremely interesting time in the management of type 2 diabetes. The thiazolidinediones have the potential to target a fundamental defect in type 2 diabetes as well as to improve CV risk in this extremely high risk group of patients. Time will tell whether the obvious potential of these agents will result in dramatically improved clinical outcomes. © 2005 Librapharm Limited.