Sitagliptin and metformin--novel combination therapy.

INTRODUCTION: The historical background of the discovery of incretins became of particular interest when insulin response was found to be much more pronounced when glucose was given orally, rather than intravenously. The robust insulin secretion seen in response to oral glucose, as opposed to intravenous glucose, is due to incretin hormones. Since the discovery of incretins, the significance of sitagliptin and metformin combination therapy has become an essential strategy in combating diabetes. The use of combination therapy such as sitagliptin and metformin in achieving the desired level of glycemia in patients with diabetes is very important and is an additional armamentarium in the fight against diabetes.

AREAS COVERED: This article reviews the history of incretins, the pathophysiology of diabetes and the use of sitagliptin and metformin combination therapy.

EXPERT OPINION: Achieving optimum blood glucose control is crucial in avoiding or at least delaying the progression of complications related to diabetes. Recently, it has become very clear that treatment with a single antidiabetic agent is often not successful in achieving glycemic control. Thus, many patients with type 2 diabetes require multiple combinations. Using sitagliptin and metformin combination therapy is an ideal strategy in the treatment of diabetes.