Impact of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists on cutaneous events: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Department

Internal Medicine

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

JAAD Reviews

Abstract

Background: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are widely used for type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity, but emerging reports suggest potential cutaneous adverse effects.

Objective: To evaluate the association between GLP-1RAs and cutaneous adverse events through a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Methods: We searched 5 databases through October 2024 for placebo-controlled randomized controlled trials of GLP-1RAs in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus or overweight/obesity. 2 independent reviewers screened studies, extracted cutaneous outcome data, and assessed risk of bias. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed.

Results: Of the 8867 articles screened, 34 randomized controlled trials (84,243 participants) were included. The incidence of alopecia was higher in GLP-1RA users than placebo (6.0 vs 0.8 per 1000 patient-years). GLP-1RA use was associated with an increased risk of alopecia (risk ratio 3.40; 95% CI 1.18–9.81; I2 = 67.77; P = .02), primarily driven by tirzepatide trials. No significant associations were observed for other cutaneous outcomes.

Limitations: Cutaneous adverse events were not pre-specified endpoints and may be under-reported.

Conclusion: GLP-1RA therapy is associated with an increased risk of alopecia but no other cutaneous events. Further studies are needed to understand underlying mechanisms and identify populations at risk of developing alopecia.

First Page

34

Last Page

36

DOI

10.1016/j.jdrv.2025.04.009

Volume

5

Publication Date

9-1-2025

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