Therapy based on incretins presents a new group of medicinal substances designated for an intervention in patients with type 2 diabetes. It includes a therapy that is efficient, safe and effective. Its advantage is a low risk of hypoglycaemia and a positive effect on body weight. The analyses that have been published so far consistently indicate a positive impact on cardiovascular risk factors. The first studies conducted on animal models prove a favourable influence ofincretin therapy on the pathophysiology of diabetic retinopathy.