Study Explores Potential of GLP-1 Agonists for Skin Disease Management
Recent research highlights the potential of GLP-1 agonists in managing dermatological conditions such as psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, acanthosis nigricans, and Hailey-Hailey disease, especially in patients with obesity or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists, approved by the FDA for the management of T2DM and obesity, are now being explored for off-label use in dermatology. These medications have shown promise in treating skin conditions involving chronic inflammation and are exacerbated by excess weight. The anti-inflammatory effects of GLP-1 agonists are primarily mediated through inhibition of TNF-α, NF-κB, IL-23, IL-17, and IL-22, which are known contributors to the pathogenesis of psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), the authors wrote.
The research team also pointed to studies have documented significant improvements in psoriasis with GLP-1 agonists. A 59-year-old male with moderate psoriasis experienced rapid symptom relief with liraglutide, which improved his psoriasis independently of weight loss. Another case of a 73-year-old male with severe, treatment-resistant psoriasis showed a significant reduction in disease severity following semaglutide therapy. GLP-1 agonists, the authors said, have also been effective in managing HS, highlighting a case of a 31-year-old female showing substantial disease improvement and pain reduction after liraglutide treatment. Additionally, positive outcomes have been reported in patients with acanthosis nigricans and Hailey-Hailey disease, suggesting broader therapeutic potential.
"These reports suggest the potential utility of GLP-1 analogs in the treatment of dermatologic disease," the authors concluded. "GLP-1 analogs demonstrated efficacy in cases refractory to other treatment modalities, often in cases of patients with obesity who would experience additional benefits from starting therapy. The efficacy of GLP-1 agonists was notable for various conditions, including psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, acanthosis nigricans, and Hailey-Hailey disease. Additional studies are needed to evaluate safety, efficacy, and proper use of GLP-1 agonists for dermatologic conditions to consider expanding their approval beyond T2DM and weight loss."
Source: Lal K, et al. Journal of Aesthetic and Clinical Dermatology. 2024;17(9):34–37.