The goal of pharmacologic treatment for type 2 diabetes is to achieve and maintain a near-normal glycated hemoglobin (A1C) concentration while minimizing hypoglycemia; an A1C goal of <7% is recommended for most patients to prevent or reduce the microvascular complications of diabetes (retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy). An A1C target of <8% may be appropriate for patients who are older, have comorbid conditions, or are at risk for serious hypoglycemia-associated adverse events.

View the Comparison Chart: Some Available Insulins for Type 2 Diabetes

The rapid-acting inhaled human insulin Afrezza (MannKind), which was approved in 2014 for treatment of type 1 or type 2 diabetes in adults, has now been approved by the FDA for use in children ≥6 years old.