The shifting paradigm in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus—A cardiologist's perspective

Abstract

In patients with diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular (CV) disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. A multitude of contemporary antidiabetic agents presents different CV safety profiles. Metformin forms the cornerstone agent to reduce CV events. Newer agents, such as glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors, have appealing CV benefits. Insulin, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, and sulfonylureas have neutral CV effects. Cardiologists should familiarize themselves with these agents to promote comprehensive CV care in patients with diabetes mellitus.