Ethical issues of prescribing cosmetic GLP-1 drugs in skin care

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are increasingly prescribed for elective weight loss and aesthetic optimization.

• Dermatologists may face requests to prescribe GLP-1 RAs for cosmetic purposes, leading to complex ethical considerations.
• Elective use of these medications is associated with potential risks such as facial volume loss and hair shedding.
• While prescribing for conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa or psoriasis can be justified, it raises concerns about patient safety and resource allocation.
• Ethical issues include nonmaleficence, scope of practice, and the balance between patient autonomy and professional judgment.
• Proposed guidelines aim to ensure responsible prescribing while prioritizing patient safety and minimizing adverse effects.

Simplified