Management of type II diabetes mellitus. Achieving optimum metabolic control

Exciting information is rapidly accruing about diabetes and suggests that maintenance of good metabolic control may prevent onset or delay progression of diabetic complications. Patients, as well as their families and health care providers, should be encouraged by the knowledge that tools are available for successful management of type II diabetes. Treatment consists of a diet-exercise-sulfonylurea regimen and, in a substantial number of patients, administration of insulin. Proper assessment of these modalities is essential if optimum metabolic control is to be achieved.