Current Geriatrics Reports · Oct 31, 2026
Newer Diabetes Medications in Older Adults with or At Risk for Cardiovascular Disease
By Bovee L, Thirumalai A
Purpose of Review To review new and interesting data on the use of diabetes medications (sodium glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i)) and incretin mimetics (glucagon like peptide − 1 receptor agonists and dual agonists) in older patients including efficacy, safety, and indications. Recent Findings SGLT2i consistently reduce cardiovascular outcomes (CVOTs) in older and frail patients with heart failure (HF) and type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Real world data shows that these are well tolerated by most patients. Incretin mimetics also offer cardiovascular benefits in older patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) with potential benefits of replacing other anti-diabetes agents and reducing polypharmacy. Summary Over the last five years, multiple analyses have shown that SGLT2i and GLP-1 are safe and effective in older patients. With careful patient selection, counseling about adverse effects, and monitoring, older patients can successfully and safely use these treatments.