Part Three: A Brief Primer of Non-Insulin Treatments for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Older People

Abstract

Diabetes is a heterogeneous condition that manifests differently in each patient. Fortunately, there are multiple different medication classes that can be used to help patients achieve their treatment goals. Diabetes is highly prevalent in older people, including patients who have been living with the condition for many years and those who are newly diagnosed. It is essential for senior care pharmacists to evaluate patient-specific goals, compelling indications, and risks and benefits of treatment. When evaluating therapy appropriateness, pharmacists must take into consideration the impact of medication therapy beyond glucose-lowering effects, including the overall impact on cardiovascular, renal, heart failure, and weight-related outcomes.