Abstract
Two new classes of oral antidiabetic agents play an increasing role in the management of type 2 diabetes, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors (gliptins) and sodiumglucose cotransporters type 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors (gliflozins). After failure of a monotherapy with metformin (first pharmacological choice in type 2 diabetes), both may offer an alternative to the add-on of a sulphonylurea, especially in patients at risk of hypoglycaemia. However, the choice between a DPP-4 inhibitor and a SGLT2 inhibitor is not easy and should be oriented based upon the individual patient characteristics. The arguments in favour of one or another pharmacological class are discussed, considering a clinical case of a patient with coronary heart disease and type 2 diabetes not well controlled with metformin.
