BACKGROUND: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are increasingly prescribed for conditions beyond type 2 diabetes, including psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa. Despite this, little is known about their dermatologic safety profiles.
METHODS: We analyzed FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) data from 2018 to 2024 for semaglutide, liraglutide, exenatide, and dulaglutide. Cutaneous adverse events (AEs) were identified using MedDRA-coded terms: "rash," "pruritus," "urticaria," "alopecia," and "angioedema". Frequency and proportional reporting ratios (PRRs) were calculated using dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors as a comparator. Logistic regression assessed predictors of cutaneous AEs, with dulaglutide as a reference and sex, age, and GLP-1 RA type as independent variables.
RESULTS: Cutaneous AEs were reported in up to 8.16% of GLP-1 RA cases, more often in females, with a mean patient age of 60. Semaglutide was associated with the highest rate, and dulaglutide the lowest. PRR analysis (0.27; 95% CI: 0.257-0.284) showed these AEs were proportionally less common relative to DPP-4 inhibitor users. Exenatide was associated with increased odds (OR = 5.01, 95% CI: 4.69–5.35), while liraglutide and semaglutide showed decreased odds.
DISCUSSION: Possibly influenced by dosage, immune modulation, and patient perception of efficacy, cutaneous GLP-1RA adverse effects were less frequent than DPP-4 inhibitors, but still warrant clinician awareness. These reactions might impact patient adherence, which highlights the need for further investigation into their mechanisms.
CONCLUSION: Cutaneous AEs are infrequent but vary by GLP-1 RA. Greater awareness may improve patient counseling as indications expand.  .
