Metabolic syndrome (MetS) represents a worldwide problem. Drugs used in MetS target different symptoms, like excessive body weight, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, or hypertension. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) regulate the gene expression involved in lipid metabolism, inflammation, and adipogenesis. Activation of PPARγ has become a target of interest to counter hyperglycemia linked with MetS and type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

Having been used for thousands of years to treat gastrointestinal diseases, the natural isoquinoline alkaloid, berberine, has exhibited a wide spectrum of biochemical and pharmacological effects in studies of recent years.

Diabetes lowers the quality of life and leads to several complications. Glibenclamide is a commonly used step-two treatment in diabetes but it causes weight gain, hypoglycemia and cardiovascular problems. Electroacupuncture (EA) can enhance insulin sensitivity and reduce blood glucose levels.

Escalation in rates of diabetes in Pakistan is posing threats to the economy and to the people’s quality of life due to poor glycemic control and very high rates of complications. Cost of care is very high, and many barriers to quality care exist. Most often patients are unable to afford the high cost of treatment. Patients’ knowledge about diabetes is associated with better medication adherence and better glycemic control.