Weight loss medications might alleviate symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa, research suggests.

GLP-1 Medications May Alleviate Skin Conditions

Recent studies indicate that medications like Ozempic and Wegovi, typically used for weight loss and diabetes management, can also help relieve symptoms of painful skin conditions. Hidradenitis Suppurativa, sometimes referred to as Inversa, is one such condition where small, painful lumps form beneath the skin.

These lumps generally appear in areas where skin rubs together and tend to recur. According to the Mayo Clinic, Hidradenitis Suppurativa usually begins after puberty and often afflicts individuals before they turn 40, with a likelihood of worsening over time. Women are notably three times more susceptible to developing this condition.

Medical intervention, both therapeutic and surgical, can effectively manage the symptoms and prevent complications.

A recent study in Jama Dermatology examined the impact of GLP-1 medications on Hidradenitis Suppurativa. Researchers from France observed that the condition is commonly associated with overweight and obesity, with about half of affected patients falling into that category.

Experts pointed out that weight loss typically has “beneficial effects” on skin conditions, whether achieved through dietary changes or bariatric surgery. Given GLP-1’s strong efficacy in promoting weight loss, the researchers theorized that the drug might also serve an anti-inflammatory role that could benefit skin symptoms.

The study tracked 66 patients with Hidradenitis Suppurativa who were on GLP-1 medications over an average follow-up of 18.5 months. Almost 90% of these participants had diabetes, with an average BMI of 39.4. Remarkably, 54% of the patients reported symptom reduction after six months, and by the final check-up, 67% noted an improvement in their condition, with 60% experiencing less pain.

“Cautious Optimism”

Dr. Brendan Camp, a dermatologist from New York, expressed “cautious optimism” regarding these findings, noting the impressive reductions in severity and pain due to GLP-1 receptor agonists. He explained that weight loss associated with these medications can decrease “mechanical friction” and “fat-driven inflammation” in vulnerable skin areas.

However, Camp clarified that he does not recommend GLP-1 for Hidradenitis Suppurativa or other skin conditions specifically because the medication is not designed for those purposes. While the results seem promising, he cautioned that the study’s retrospective nature limits definitive conclusions.

He emphasized the need for randomized clinical trials to confirm these findings and discern who would benefit most from this treatment. Most participants in this study, being diabetic and obese, might not represent the broader Hidradenitis Suppurativa population.

In his words, “GLP-1 therapy remains a treatment for Hidradenitis Suppurativa and is not a sign of approval.” While current recommendations do not endorse GLP-1 for this condition, those eligible for diabetes or obesity treatments may find additional benefits for symptoms associated with Hidradenitis Suppurativa.