[The expectation for DPP-4 inhibitors on future treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus].

Abstract Since onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus is triggered by various pathophysiological defects, differently-acting drugs might be required to treat type 2 diabetes effectively. The ultimate goals of diabetes treatment are; to maintain and utilize the endogenous insulin secretion and to prevent the cardiovascular events. DPP-4 inhibitor, such as alogliptin, is already widely used in clinical practice, since there is no risks of drug-induced hypoglycemia when it is used alone. Also, it is expected to be more common as not only an initial drug for the glycemic control but also the best partner in combination with another oral anti-diabetic drugs for its beneficial effects on beta-cell preservation.