[Overview of drug therapy in elderly diabetic patients]

General treatment principles for elderly diabetic patient with type 2 diabetes are the same as those of adult care. However, hypoglycemia and other adverse effects of glucose-lowering treatment are more common in older patients. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each antihyperglycemic drug class helps clinicians individualize therapy for elderly patients. Especially, given the heterogeneity of the older adult population, the risk of hypoglycemia must be carefully considered before using sulfonylureas and insulin regimen. Less stringent goals for glycemic control are recommended for frail elderly diabetic patients with limited life expectancy, advanced diabetes complications, or extensive comorbid conditions. The aggressive management of cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, obesity, inactivity or smoking, is likely to have even greater benefits.