The management of patients with type 2 diabetes has been given a firm evidence base in recent years through the results of randomised clinical trials,notably the UKPDS.
An improved understanding of the pathogenesis and natural history of this complex metabolic disorder has facilitated the application of new therapeutic agents.
attainment and maintenance of near-normal glycaemic control,while minimising the risk of iatrogenic hypoglycaemia,is a central long-term objective of therapy;however,this is often difficult to achieve in practice.