Abstract

In this review, we focus on the chemicals used in the current treatment of type 2 diabetes and discuss some potentially viable, promising targets in the management of this metabolic syndrome, with a special mention to some naturally occurring bioactive compounds. Non insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM or Type 2 diabetes) is a prevalent, chronic metabolic disorder, which affects more than 171 million people worldwide. Diminished insulin secretion due to impaired cell function and or insulin resistance of the peripheral tissues such as liver, adipose tissue and skeletal muscle causes hyperglycemia, which is controlled with suitable pharmacological agents. The current line of treatment includes: (1) insulin secretagogues, (2) insulin sensitizers, (3) dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitors, (4) biguanides, (5) glucosidase inhibitors and (6) drugs in development.

Keywords: Oral Hypoglycemics, metabolic syndromeNon insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), chronic metabolic disorder, hyperglycemia, insulin sensitizers, biguanides