Adapting Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists for Innovative Psoriasis Therapy

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated skin disease that impacts the lives and well-being of many patients. Although current therapies are largely centered around immunosuppression and immune-modulation, emerging evidence suggests that glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, commonly used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity, may have a possible role in the treatment and management of psoriatic inflammation and flares. In this literature review, we aim to synthesize and characterize existing literature discussing the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists in the treatment of psoriasis, evaluate the effectiveness of this therapeutic approach, and highlight limitations in current research. We analyze case reports, cohort studies, and clinical trials to assess clinical outcomes, proposed mechanisms of action, and patient populations. While preliminary evidence supports the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists as an adjunctive treatment for psoriasis, small sample sizes, heterogeneous study designs, variable follow-up times, and the lack of randomized controlled trials emphasize the necessity for further research. Addressing these gaps in research is crucial for defining the role of GLP-1 receptor agonists in the treatment of psoriasis and establishing their potential as an optimistic new therapeutic approach for this chronic inflammatory disease.