Study Suggests Semaglutide May Help Reduce Hidradenitis Suppurativa Symptoms in Obese Patients

New research presented at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress 2024 has shown encouraging findings for the use of semaglutide in treating hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) among patients with obesity. HS, a painful and chronic skin condition, has been challenging to manage, especially in individuals with obesity. This study offers preliminary evidence of semaglutide's potential role in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life for affected patients.

Investigating a New Treatment Approach for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

HS affects approximately 1 in 100 people, often leading to painful abscesses, scarring, and a reduced quality of life. With obesity being a significant risk factor for the condition, treatment options have been limited and can involve substantial side effects. This study marks the first examination of semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA), for treating HS. Researchers hope that this approach could provide an alternative to current treatment strategies.

Key Findings: Positive Outcomes for Obese HS Patients

The study, conducted between June 2020 and March 2023, involved 30 obese individuals with varying degrees of HS who received semaglutide weekly for an average duration of 8.2 months. Results indicated a reduction in the frequency of HS flare-ups, which extended from approximately once every two months to nearly every three months. Additionally, participants experienced notable improvements in quality of life, reflected in a reduction of scores on the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). About one-third of participants showed meaningful improvements in their DLQI scores.

Patients also demonstrated reductions in body mass index (BMI) and weight. On average, BMI decreased from a baseline in the low forties to a lower value, while patients lost approximately 6 kilograms during treatment. Additionally, biochemical markers such as HbA1c and C-reactive protein (CRP) showed improvements, indicating better glycemic control and reduced inflammation.

Why These Findings Are Important

This research offers a potential new approach to managing HS, especially for patients dealing with obesity. While semaglutide is already known for its role in promoting weight loss, this study suggests it may also reduce the frequency of HS flare-ups and improve patients' quality of life. If future studies confirm these findings, semaglutide could become a valuable adjunct therapy for managing HS in obese individuals.

However, the study's lead researcher, Dr. Daniel Lyons, emphasized that larger trials are necessary to confirm these early results. Researchers also recommend further exploration of higher doses and studies isolating the effects of semaglutide from other treatments. These next steps will help determine the full potential of semaglutide in managing this complex condition.