According to this Medscape article, recent research is shining a spotlight on an unexpected benefit of GLP‑1 receptor agonists (GLP‑1 RAs) weight loss medications: they may help improve chronic inflammatory skin conditions, such as psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), and even wound healing
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From Diabetes to Dermatology
Originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes, GLP‑1 RAs (e.g., semaglutide, tirzepatide, liraglutide) were repurposed for weight loss. Newer drugs like semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Zepbound/Mounjaro) are especially potent. Beyond their metabolic benefits—including reducing cardiovascular and renal risks—they are now drawing interest from dermatologists for their effects on skin diseases.
What the Data Shows
Psoriasis
Multiple reports—including one systematic review and meta-analysis—show reductions in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores with liraglutide, independent of weight or glucose control. Small studies highlighted clinically meaningful improvements in skin inflammation, epidermal thickness, and patient quality of life over 12 weeks . However, another trial found no benefit among obese patients without diabetes, suggesting the effects may be tied to glycemic control .
Psoriatic Arthritis & Ongoing Trials
Eli Lilly is conducting Phase 3 trials (TOGETHER‑PsO and TOGETHER‑PsA) exploring tirzepatide combined with ixekizumab in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Results are due in 2026 .
Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)
Case reports and a systematic review indicate significant improvements in HS symptoms, lesion severity, systemic inflammation, and quality of life when treated with semaglutide or liraglutide. These benefits appear related to both metabolic improvements and direct anti‑inflammatory effects .
Wound Healing & Mechanisms
Animal studies using older GLP‑1 RAs show accelerated wound healing through enhanced angiogenesis, keratinocyte migration, endothelial proliferation, and regeneration. Human skin also expresses GLP‑1 receptors—especially in inflammatory environments—suggesting direct skin‑level effects beyond weight loss.
Clinical Implications
Dermatologists may soon consider GLP‑1 RAs not just for weight management but as adjunctive therapies for skin conditions—particularly in patients with obesity or metabolic disease . According to experts like Dr. Naiem Issa and Dr. Joel Gelfand, treating obesity and glucose control with GLP‑1 RAs may reduce or even eliminate the need for intensive dermatological therapies .
However, awareness of side effects is critical. Common reactions include injection‑site reactions, rashes, and altered skin sensations (e.g., burning or dysesthesia), especially with drugs like semaglutide and exenatide.
Looking Ahead
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Emerging research: Ongoing and planned trials in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis will clarify efficacy.
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Multidisciplinary care: Ideal management involves collaboration between dermatology, endocrinology, and primary care to safely initiate GLP‑1 RAs, titrate doses, and monitor side effects .
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Patient selection: GLP‑1 RAs are most appropriate for patients with concurrent obesity or diabetes. Their use in lean individuals remains unproven.
Bottom Line
GLP‑1 receptor agonists are emerging as a promising new tool in dermatology—not just for weight loss and metabolic health, but for treating inflammatory skin diseases like psoriasis and HS, and possibly improving wound healing. As evidence deepens, these medications may reshape the standard of care, highlighting the need for multidisciplinary approaches and patient-specific planning.
