What Clinicians Need to Know About Glucagon-like Peptide 1 Agonists

The interplay between metabolic health and autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis (PsO) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) has garnered increasing attention. Obesity, a key feature of metabolic syndrome, exacerbates disease severity in these conditions, prompting the exploration of treatments addressing both the immune system and metabolism. Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), primarily used for type 2 diabetes mellitus, have demonstrated benefits beyond glycemic control, including promoting weight loss, improving metabolic health, and potentially modulating immune responses. There is also a dual GLP-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor agonist with similar and potentially superior capabilities; throughout this manuscript these will be collectively known as GLP-1RA. Recent studies also suggest that GLP-1RAs may help manage PsO and PsA in patients with obesity. These medications may offer dual benefits by reducing inflammation and addressing metabolic abnormalities like insulin resistance and hyperlipidemia. This article reports on a presentation given at the Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis (GRAPPA) 2024 annual meeting underscoring the potential of GLP-1RAs as a therapeutic option, particularly for obese patients with PsO and PsA. Although promising, the evidence supporting GLP-1RAs for treating PsO and PsA remains limited, necessitating further clinical research to evaluate their safety and efficacy.