The thiazolidinediones (TZDs) are a class of oral antidiabetic drugs that improve insulin sensitivity in patients with type 2 diabetes. Although the mechanism by which the TZDs lower insulin resistance is unclear, they are known to target the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), a nuclear hormone receptor. Ligands for PPARγ regulate adipocyte production and secretion of fatty acids as well as glucose metabolism, resulting in increased insulin sensitivity in adipose tissue, liver, and skeletal muscle. However, TZDs have several adverse effects, including weight gain and liver toxicity. Herein we report identification of non-TZD PPARγ agonists which exhibit beneficial effects similar to that of TZDs in animal models, but without the associated adverse effects.