The recommended steps for glucose control in the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance are:
Metformin.
Metformin and a sulfonylurea (consider substituting a DPP-4 inhibitor or a thiazolidinedione for the sulfonylurea if there is a significant risk of hypoglycaemia or a sulfonylurea is contra-indicated or not tolerated).
Add thiazolidinedione or insulin (exenatide may be considered at this stage if NICE criteria are met - see the separate article above, and the NICE guideline).
Insulin and metformin and a sulfonylurea.
Increase the insulin dose and intensify the regimen over time.
All decisions concerning treatment should be made with the patient in partnership, as patients who make informed shared decisions concerning their management are more likely to adhere to any given regime.