Dermatologic Implications of Glycemic Control Medications for Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic disease with a rising prevalence worldwide that is characterized by hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. Metformin, which improves blood glucose levels and insulin sensitivity, is considered the first-line therapy for T2DM. In patients with T2DM who are overweight or obese, glucagonlike peptide 1 (GLP-1) and dual GLP-1/gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP) agonists are used as adjunct or alternative therapies given their dual benefits for insulin sensitivity and weight loss. Beyond the metabolic implications of T2DM medications, these agents also have hormonal and immunologic effects that may impact dermatologic diseases (eg, psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa [HS]). In this review, we highlight the dermatologic adverse effects and potential therapeutic benefits of metformin as well as GLP-1 and GLP-1/GIP agonists.