It depends of a number of factors. The different types of medication result in different averages in weight loss and the different clinical trials show different results.  One cause of this is the inclusion criteria for the clinical trials. An average for people without diabetes on one of the most popular medications is about 15% weight loss after 68 weeks. With this medication about a third of people will achieve weight loss over 20%.* People with diabetes lose about 5% less weight than those who don’t have diabetes – about 9.6% over the same time with the same medication. A small minority of people will not respond to a particular medication and will have to try a different one. *STEP 1 Clinical Trial 2021

This clinic is specifically designed to find the right weight loss medication for people who have already tried dieting and exercise. The medication is to be used as an adjunct to dieting and exercise.

We will discuss your weight and your goals for weight loss. We will review your medical history and any current medication. If you attend our clinic in person we will also offer to do an examination. We will set out the treatment options and assess if the benefits out weight the risks for using weight loss medication.

30 minutes for the initial assessment and 15 minutes for follow up appointments

Your prescription will be sent to your pharmacy if you are suitable for medication. You will be sent information on how to use the medication and related resources. You can start the medication straight away.

It depends on the type of medication a person wants to take and the dose that they require. It ranges from about 150 euro to 250 euro per month although some people find that a lower dose is sufficient which will cost less. It is tax deductible as are the cost of the consultations .

The use medication for weight loss requires regular and frequent follow up in order to adjust the dose appropriately and monitor for side effects. You can contact the clinic for advice regarding the medication within the duration of your prescription subject to reasonable usage of the doctors time. We try to contact every patient at about 6 or 8 weeks after the initial consultation to check on how they are getting on. Before the end of your initial 3 month prescription you will need to book a follow up consultation at a cost of 100 euro. After this 3 month follow up appointment you will need to book a follow up appointment every 6 months for a repeat prescription.

If you have certain medical problems you may be asked to get up to date bloods tests done but generally these are not needed. At the clinic we can do a basic examination including an estimate of your BMI.

You can’t take any weight loss medication if you are pregnant or breast feeding. You must stop any weight loss medication at least 3 months before trying to get pregnant. If you are of child bearing age you must use appropriate contraception while on the medication.

Currently the clinic does not see people under the age of 18.

The clinic prescribes all the latest types of medication licensed for weight loss in Ireland. There are 3 classes of medication licensed in Ireland to assist with weight loss. Two of the classes are in tablet form while the third class of medication is injectable. Known as "injectables" this third class of medication is dominating this area of medicine due to superior effectiveness. It should be noted that there are ongoing shortages of medication nationwide and some patients can have difficulty getting a particular type of medication.

No treatment for excess weight is entirely safe. There are risks with the medication and potential side effects. By appropriately selecting the right medication for people the risks can be kept to a minimum.

Yes there are restrictions. A person must have a BMI over 30 or over 27 with a weight related problem. There are also certain medical conditions that could create complications. This requires a review of each persons medical history and current medication. 

The medication works by reducing how much you want to eat or in the case of a lipase inhibitor how much fat your body absorbs. Therefore you should eat less when on the medication. It is advisable to maintain a healthy diet which will enhance the effects of any weight loss medication.

It is advisable to exercise because it will magnify the effects of the medication substantially. Also exercising will reduce or prevent the loss of muscle mass that can occur with weight loss. Exercise after eating is important for aiding gut motility which can be reduced with some types of medication.

In some cases significant weight loss can reverse type 2 diabetes.

Click on the link for the booking section and choice between attending the clinic in Dublin and the virtual clinic online. Then chose a time and date that suits. You need a debit or credit card to make the booking.

BOOK APPOINTMENT

No, the clinic cannot provide consultations or issue prescriptions outside the Republic of Ireland.