Significant Reduction in Mortality and Cardiovascular Risks in Psoriasis Patients Using GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

Recent research has revealed that psoriasis patients treated with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), such as semaglutide and liraglutide, experience a remarkable decrease in mortality rates and cardiovascular events. Specifically, individuals taking these medications face a 78% lower risk of death and a 44% reduction in major cardiovascular incidents compared to patients on other diabetes or weight-loss therapies.

The study, presented at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress 2025, is the largest of its kind. It also uncovered significant reductions in the risks of alcohol abuse by 65% and substance abuse by nearly 50%. Psoriasis, a chronic skin condition affecting roughly 2-3% of the population, is associated not only with skin symptoms but also with heightened risks of heart attack, stroke, and psychiatric issues such as depression and anxiety, along with increased alcohol and substance use.

The researchers analyzed data from a vast database of over 110 million patients in the United States. They compared outcomes in more than 6,000 psoriasis patients with diabetes or obesity over two years—half receiving GLP-1RAs, and the other half on alternative anti-diabetic or anti-obesity medications. All subjects included in the study were over 18, diagnosed with psoriasis requiring systemic therapy, and had maintained continuous treatment for at least 24 months.

After adjusting for age, sex, and other health conditions through propensity score matching, the findings consistently favored GLP-1RA treatment. Lead researcher Professor Ralf Ludwig explained that these medications might offer benefits beyond weight and glucose control, potentially inhibiting proinflammatory mediators elevated in psoriasis and affecting brain regions involved in mood and reward, which could explain reductions in alcohol and substance use.

Safety profiles were comparable to those observed in the general population, with no significant increase in adverse effects like hypoglycemia, nausea, or constipation. Given their safety and broad health benefits, GLP-1RAs could become a preferred therapy for psoriasis patients, especially those also managing diabetes or obesity. These findings emphasize the importance of holistic approaches in psoriasis management, targeting overall health risks alongside skin symptoms.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-glp-1ra-drugs-death-cardiovascular.html