In this episode of Topical Conversations, Michael Cameron, MD, and James Allred, MD, explore the intersection of GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as tirzepatide and semaglutide, and inflammatory skin diseases like psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), and atopic dermatitis (AD). They discuss how these medications, originally developed for diabetes and weight management, are emerging as potential tools in dermatology, impacting the way clinicians can approach inflammatory conditions.
GLP-1 receptor agonists: a game-changer for inflammation
Dr Allred highlights how GLP-1 receptor agonists have shown significant anti-inflammatory effects, even before substantial weight loss occurs. Historically, weight reduction has been associated with improvements in inflammatory skin diseases but achieving it through diet and exercise alone is often challenging for many patients. GLP-1 receptor agonists provide a new avenue, reducing systemic inflammation and complementing existing therapies for psoriasis and other conditions.
Dr Cameron adds that anecdotal evidence shows improvements in psoriasis, HS, and AD when these medications are used, often alongside biologics. He emphasizes that GLP-1 receptor agonists are becoming more accessible and commonly prescribed, making it crucial for dermatologists to understand their potential benefits.
The role of visceral fat in inflammation
Dr Allred explains the pathophysiology of visceral fat and its role in systemic inflammation. Unlike subcutaneous fat, visceral fat is hormonally active, releasing cytokines like IL-6 and TNF-alpha that exacerbate inflammatory diseases. He notes that GLP-1 receptor agonists reduce the inflammatory burden by targeting these fat cells, which are highly metabolically active and prone to cellular damage.
Dr Cameron points out that some patients on GLP-1 receptor agonists experience marked improvements in their psoriasis even without concomitant biologics, suggesting the reduction in proinflammatory mediators from fat cells plays a significant role in disease improvement.
Practical considerations for dermatologists
Future directions in research
Dr Cameron concludes by previewing ongoing research comparing outcomes for patients on ixekizumab alone versus ixekizumab combined with GLP-1 receptor agonists. Early evidence suggests that this combination may amplify disease improvement in conditions like psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
Dr Allred believes GLP-1 receptor agonists represent the next major evolution in psoriasis treatment, likening their impact to the revolutionary introduction of biologics. He encourages dermatologists to embrace this innovation to maximize the care they provide for their patients.
Takeaways for Dermatologists
In the first DermInsider - A Virtual Grand Rounds Series session of the year, join leading experts Dr. Bhutani and Dr. Serota for a dynamic deep dive into one of the most exciting frontiers in psoriatic disease management. Dr. Del Rosso moderates this 45-minute activity that explores the rapidly emerging role of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) and their potential impact beyond metabolic disease. Don't miss out on this opportunity to catch up on breakthrough insights and emerging evidence on this hot topic!“We have some really interesting data on the horizon that’s going to hopefully help more providers feel confident about using [GLP-1] medications in conjunction with their psoriasis medications that they are used to using.” – Tina Bhutani, MD MASBest of FC25: GLP-1RAs in Psoriasis – Catching Up on The ScienceThis activity is supported by an educational grant from Lilly.
Got a few minutes? Join our expert faculty for their rapid-fire tips on getting started with GLP-1 receptor agonists for patients with psoriasis and obesity.“When we are treating patients with obesity and psoriasis in weight management, really focus on the health gains. It’s not about what people are losing, it’s about what they are gaining in this process.” – Angela Fitch, MDPlease visit the “Educational Resources” page to access the handouts developed by faculty on GLP's in psoriatic disease mentioned in this activity.This activity is supported by an educational grant from Lilly.
In this 20-minute Seminar in Depth from the 2025 Fall Clinical Dermatology Conference, the faculty explore what differentiates TYK2 inhibitors from traditional JAK inhibitors, as well as how to identify patients with psoriasis who may benefit from oral small molecule therapy.“When thinking about a medication, you need to take a number of things into consideration: location of disease, disease severity, and age. Age plays a big role when I think about what medication I’m going to choose for a patient – Are they of child-bearing age? Are they young and they live in group housing or a dorm?” – Benjamin Lockshin, MDFC25: Encapsulating Progress With New and Emerging TYK2 Inhibitors for Psoriasis: An Online ActivityThis activity is supported by an educational grant from Bristol Myers Squibb.