[Therapy of diabetes mellitus today]

The therapy of diabetes mellitus is always connected with the observation of an adapted diet, the aim of which is the obtaining of the optimal weight. Still more intensive concentric educational measures for patients and persons endangered by diabetes are necessary, in which cases muscular action is of increasing importance. Sulfonylureas furthering the secretion of insulin are to be used only as far as necessary. Peripherally acting anti-diabetics, such as biguanides have an indication in diabetes mellitus which is exactly defined and to be observed. Also with regard to the combat against adiposity their influence on the lipometabolism needs further clarification. Metabolic and immunologic insulin resistance are complications of the insulin therapy. The extensive technical preparation of the human synthetic insulin may contribute to the improvement of the prognosis of diabetes. At present the introduction of artifical beta-cell-systems is a problem of the diminishing of the apparatuses. The genetic consultation for diabetics is important and in many cases possible.