The evidence base for the optimal management of people with type 2 diabetes has increased dramatically over the last 10 years. Modern management of type 2 diabetes goes beyond glucose lowering and encompasses interventions to impact upon the cluster of cardiovascular risk factors associated with this complex condition. Large, randomised clinical trials have provided evidence for the use of antidiabetic agents, lipid-modulating therapies and antihypertensive agents in order to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in this high-risk group of patients. Such a multifactorial approach can become an issue for patients in terms of decreased compliance due to increased tablet burden and the complexity of drug regimen. Furthermore, despite optimal care in line with current best practice, people with type 2 diabetes still have a residual risk for cardiovascular disease compared with their counterparts without this condition. Pharmacological agents with additional benefits on cardiovascular risk factors may provide a future strategy for the optimal management of people with type 2 diabetes.
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