Comparative Analysis of Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus on Monotherapy Versus Combination Therapy

This narrative review compares the clinical outcomes of monotherapy versus combination therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Monotherapy is suitable for early-stage disease and modest hyperglycemia due to its simplicity and tolerability. However, combination therapy offers superior and more durable glycemic control, improved cardiovascular and metabolic outcomes, especially when using agents with cardioprotective and weight-modifying properties. While safety profiles vary, combination therapy requires individualized selection to minimize adverse events and optimize adherence. Although initially more expensive, combination therapy may reduce long-term complications and healthcare costs, supporting sustained metabolic control and improved outcomes in T2DM.