Research on GLP-1s for psoriasis is still in its early stages, but some small studies have shown promise. “There’s growing evidence that GLP-1s may reduce systemic inflammation, which plays a major role in psoriasis,” says Hannah Kopelman, DO, a dermatologist in New York City who treats people with psoriasis.
Why GLP-1s Work for Psoriasis
- Moving killer T cells (a type of immune cell) away from psoriatic plaques (dry, scaly skin), which lessens local inflammation and balances your immune response
- Decreasing other T cell activity in lesions, which then lowers substances that cause inflammation
- Slowing your immune system’s signals, preventing inflammation before it starts
These medications can offer different results depending on a few factors.
“The effects of GLP-1s on psoriasis vary based on the degree of obesity and severity of psoriasis,” says Lindsey Bordone, MD, a dermatologist and an assistant professor of dermatology at NewYork-Presbyterian Columbia University Irving Medical Center in New York City. “If I have a patient who developed psoriasis after they became overweight or obese, then I am optimistic when prescribing a GLP-1 that, with weight loss, their psoriasis will go into remission.”
How Soon Will GLP-1s Lessen Psoriasis Symptoms?
You won’t see improved psoriasis symptoms the day you start GLP-1s, and responses vary widely, says Dr. Kopelman. “Most people report skin improvement around the 8- to 12-week mark, which tracks with the timeline we expect for systemic inflammation to start meaningfully decreasing.”
“I think the better way to look at it is about reaching a goal of improved metabolic health,” says Dr. Bordone, adding that for people with more severe obesity or diabetes, psoriasis symptom improvement may take longer.
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