Summary: The goal of glycemic treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is to maintain optimal glycemic control, while causing as few adverse consequences as possible. GLP-1-based therapies represent an important advance in the treatment of T2DM, restoring the diminished incretin effect and potentially addressing the decline in beta-cell function. In addition to their documented effects on glycemic control and weight, GLP-1 therapies are a promising option for ameliorating multiple cardiometabolic risk factors associated with T2DM. Furthermore, once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy offers the promise of less frequent dosing with expectations of accompanying improvements in patient compliance and treatment outcomes. Healthcare providers need to have a thorough understanding of the effects of GLP-1-based therapies, particularly in the area of appropriate patient identification and management of potential side effects. 0.5 CME Credits
