Use of Incretin Therapy in the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and dipeptidyl-peptidase 4 inhibitors are 2 of 6 second-line medication options in diabetes management according to the 2016 American Diabetes Association guidelines. Providers must take many factors into consideration when choosing a treatment regimen, including patient preference, cost and insurance coverage, efficacy, and tolerability. Side effects, such as hypoglycemia and weight gain, often contribute to lack of control and poor adherence. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and dipeptidyl-peptidase 4 inhibitors are well-tolerated options that improve glycemic control with a low incidence of hypoglycemia and weight gain. In this article we review the similarities, differences, advantages, and disadvantages of the incretin therapies.