GLP-1 research in hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) covers symptoms, quality of life and treatment use. Check which outcome changed and what happened in the comparison group.
Twenty adults were followed for six months
Nicolau and colleagues studied semaglutide in 20 adults with HS and obesity. Participants received more than 1 mg weekly in a prospective, open-label cohort, with measurements before treatment and at six months. There was no randomized comparison group. [1]
The abstract reports these changes: [1]
| Measure | Reported change |
|---|---|
| Body weight | −21.4 kg |
| Dermatology Life Quality Index | −8.8 points |
| Pain visual analogue scale | −4.1 points |
Hurley stage decreased in all participants. Several improvements remained statistically significant after adjustment for weight change. That analysis does not establish a direct anti-inflammatory mechanism or remove the need for a control group. Our review used the abstract; it does not provide an adverse-event table or enough detail to reproduce the adjustment. [1]
These results cannot predict your weight loss or symptom response. Nor do they show that existing tunnels or scars will disappear.
The Danish comparison changes the interpretation
Nielsen and colleagues used Danish registries covering 2000–2022. Their cohort included 12,581 adults with HS, 9,824 with psoriasis and 12,581 background controls. GLP-1 treatment was initiated by 8.2%, 5.7% and 3.2%, respectively. [2]
For continuously treated HS patients and matched HS nonusers, the investigators examined healthcare use, surgery and medicines during the two years before and after initiation. HS-related treatment and surgery declined after GLP-1 initiation, but comparable declines occurred among matched non-initiators. Differences between groups were not statistically significant. [2]
Our review used the abstract and its plain-language summary. The result does not prove that GLP-1 medicines have no effect on HS. It does show why a before-and-after decline alone cannot establish that the medicine caused it. [2]
Painful recurring lumps need assessment
AAD explains that HS may resemble acne, boils or other conditions. Dermatologists ask about pain, drainage, timing and affected areas, often the armpits, groin, buttocks or beneath the breasts. Examination helps establish the diagnosis; drainage may be tested when infection is suspected. [3]
Do not assume every lump during GLP-1 treatment is HS, or wait for weight change before seeking assessment. Tell the clinician when lesions began, whether they recur in the same locations and how they affect sleep, clothing or movement.
Keep an HS treatment plan alongside metabolic care
AAD describes individualized care to reduce flares, heal wounds and relieve pain and itch. Treatment can include skin care, topical or systemic medicines, biologics and procedures. The choice depends on the lesions, infection, pain and effect on daily life. [3]
Bring both prescription lists to the review. Ask for a follow-up plan with specific measures of progress, rather than treating weight change as the sole measure of whether your skin disease is controlled.
Printed book
How to Keep Your Face on GLP-1
$12.95 + free shipping
Order Now30 day money back guarantee
This article provides general education, not a diagnosis or an individual treatment plan. Medication information refers to US sources. Discuss medication, nutrition and cosmetic treatment decisions with qualified clinicians.
Read next
Skin & researchAcne Moisturizers: Hydration and Water Loss Had Different Results→Skin careAcne Scars During GLP-1: Identify the Mark Before Treatment→Sources
- Semaglutide in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa and obesityNicolau and colleagues, Medicina Clínica, 2026; abstract reviewed↩ Back to text
- GLP-1 receptor agonists in hidradenitis suppurativa: nationwide cohortNielsen and colleagues, JEADV, October 2026; abstract and plain-language summary reviewed↩ Back to text
- Hidradenitis suppurativa: Diagnosis and treatmentAmerican Academy of Dermatology↩ Back to text