novel drugs for treatment of diabetes mellitus: what is their place in african healthcare system?

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition that poses a major health burden worldwide, including in africa. the disease is made worse by complications that lower life expectancy, quality of life, and raise death rates. although conventional treatments have remained the mainstay of managing diabetes, new pharmacological strategies with better potential for results include sglt2 inhibitors and the incretin-based therapies. this study evaluates the role of these more recent medications in the healthcare landscape of africa by looking at their effectiveness, financial obstacles, and assimilation into the current health systems. the general efficacy, adverse effects, popularity, and particular clinical trials carried out in africa or involving african populations were the main topics of the methodical analysis of the literature. based on this study, these innovative medications have major advantages for glycaemic control and managing secondary complications. still, they also present major limitations due to their high price and restricted availability. the introduction of these expensive medicines has the potential to increase the already high financial burden of diabetes care in many african countries, restricting access for the vast majority of the population. to customize therapies to african populations’ genetic and socioeconomic circumstances, policy options should include negotiating cheaper drug pricing, improving the overall regional healthcare system, and supporting regional clinical research. to improve adherence to these therapies, future strategies should concentrate on broadening the evidence base through local trials and enhancing drug access. this review highlights the critical need for a systematic approach to diabetes care in africa that compromises innovative treatment options and realistic financial and infrastructure.