Medical Weight Loss
SHEDDING POUNDS HAS NEVER BEEN SIMPLER
Medical Weight Loss Clinic & Spa in Chapel Hill
How it works
Medical Weight Loss at Trillium Med Spa
A complete history and physical will be completed with our clinical team including laboratory evaluation to determine if one of the injectable weight loss medications is right for you.*
*The medical evaluation and blood work is billed to your insurance and subject to the terms of your policy.
Eligibility Requirements (covered by insurance)
- Consult and intake with our clinical team
- Blood work within the last 90 days (CMP, CBC, A1C, Thyroid Function, Pancreatic Enzymes)
What is Medical Weight Loss?
Medical weight loss involves the use of GLP-1 medicines to help patients lose weight. Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are FDA approved for use by overweight individuals struggling to lose weight. Receiving weekly injections of one of these medicines, along with regular weight checks and coaching, has been shown to significantly decrease weight and improve overall health.
How Medical Weight Loss Works
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are FDA approved for overweight and obese individuals struggling to lose weight.
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide work by
- Reducing cravings
- Give you a sense of feeling full
- Improving insulin sensitivity
- Decreasing hunger
- Slowing down digestion
The Medical Weight Loss Program* at Trillium Med Spa
- Weekly shots of Semaglutide or Tirzepatide
- Medication for possible nausea
- Weekly weight checks
*Results of treatment may vary for individuals.
Choose Trillium Medical Weight Loss Clinic in Chapel Hill
Trillium Med Spa’s Medical Weight Loss Program is designed to provide personalized, medically supervised weight loss solutions aimed at helping clients achieve sustainable, healthy weight loss. The program incorporates evidence-based strategies, combining medical expertise with advanced treatments to offer comprehensive support throughout the weight loss journey.
Key Features of the Medical Weight Loss Program:
1
Personalized Assessment and Consultation
The program begins with an in-depth consultation where a medical professional assesses each client’s individual health profile. This includes:
- Detailed medical history and physical examination
- Evaluation of metabolic health, body composition, and lifestyle factors
- Identification of any underlying conditions that may be affecting weight, such as thyroid issues or insulin resistance
Based on this assessment, a customized weight loss plan is created to suit the client’s specific needs and goals.
2
Medically Supervised Weight Loss Plans
The core of Trillium’s weight loss programs is the integration of medical supervision, ensuring that weight loss is both safe and effective.
Treatment plans may include:
- Prescription Medications: Depending on the individual’s needs, FDA-approved medications may be prescribed to support weight loss by controlling appetite, enhancing metabolism, or improving insulin sensitivity.
- Hormonal Therapy: For individuals with hormonal imbalances, hormone optimization may be part of the treatment to restore balance and aid in weight management.
3
Ongoing Monitoring and Support
Throughout the program, clients receive ongoing monitoring to ensure their progress is on track and adjustments are made as needed. This includes:
- Regular Check-ins: Medical professionals review weight loss progress, adjust medications, and provide continuous support.
- Accountability and Motivation: Supportive coaching and motivation help clients stay focused on their goals, making the journey smoother and more manageable.
Benefits of Our Weight Loss Programs
- Medically Supervised: Clients benefit from expert guidance, ensuring that weight loss is safe and tailored to their individual health needs.
- Comprehensive Approach: The program addresses multiple aspects of weight loss with a focus on medical treatments.
- Non-Surgical Options: Clients can achieve fat reduction and body contouring without the need for invasive surgery.
- Long-Term Success: The focus on lifestyle changes and maintenance strategies promotes sustainable results.
- Trillium Med Spa’s Medical Weight Loss Program offers a holistic, scientifically based approach to help clients achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
How Effective Is Semaglutide for Weight Loss? Exploring the Side Effects
Yes, semaglutide is effective for weight loss and has gained significant attention as a treatment for obesity. Semaglutide is a medication originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes, but its weight loss effects have been substantial enough to lead to its approval for weight management under the brand name Wegovy. Here’s an overview of its effectiveness and side effects:
Effectiveness of Semaglutide for Weight Loss
Significant Weight Reduction
Clinical studies have shown that semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss. In one major trial (STEP study), individuals who took semaglutide lost an average of 15-18% of their body weight over a period of 68 weeks, compared to just 2-4% in those using a placebo. For some, the weight loss exceeded 20%.
Mechanism of Action
Semaglutide mimics a hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), which is naturally produced in the body. GLP-1 regulates appetite, insulin levels, and digestion. By acting on receptors in the brain, semaglutide helps:
- Reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness
- Slow down the rate at which food leaves the stomach, leading to fewer cravings and smaller meal sizes
- Improve blood sugar control, which can indirectly aid in weight loss for those with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes
Sustained Effects
The weight loss achieved with semaglutide tends to be sustained as long as the medication is continued, making it an effective tool for long-term weight management.
FDA-Approved for Weight Loss
In 2021, the FDA approved semaglutide (under the brand name Wegovy) specifically for chronic weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or those who are overweight (BMI ≥27) with weight-related conditions such as hypertension or type 2 diabetes.
At Trillium Clinic Med Spa, we’ve observed that individuals with a lower BMI have also experienced significant benefits. Our med spa offers personalized treatments that can help a broader range of clients achieve their weight loss goals.
Side Effects of Semaglutide
While semaglutide is effective, it can have side effects, especially related to the gastrointestinal system.
Common Side Effects
Nausea: This is the most common side effect and tends to occur when starting the medication or increasing the dose. It often decreases as the body adjusts.
Vomiting: Some individuals experience vomiting, especially in the early stages of treatment.
Diarrhea or Constipation: Gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and constipation are also frequently reported.
Bloating and Abdominal Pain: Some users may experience bloating or discomfort in the abdominal area.
These side effects tend to be dose-dependent and may decrease over time as the body adjusts to the medication.
Less Common but Serious Side Effects
Pancreatitis: There is a small risk of developing pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), which can cause severe stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical care without delay.
Gallbladder Problems: Semaglutide may increase the risk of gallbladder issues, such as gallstones, which can lead to pain in the upper right abdomen.
Hypoglycemia: While semaglutide does not usually cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) on its own, individuals taking it along with other medications like insulin may be at risk. Careful monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential.
Thyroid Tumors: In animal studies, semaglutide was linked to an increased risk of thyroid tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma. While this has not been definitively proven in humans, it is a potential risk, and the medication is not recommended for individuals with a personal or family history of certain types of thyroid cancer.
Kidney Function Changes: There have been reports of changes in kidney function, particularly in people who already have kidney problems.
Who Should Avoid Semaglutide?
Individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should avoid semaglutide due to the potential risk of thyroid tumors. People with a history of severe gastrointestinal disease, such as gastroparesis, should use caution.
Regular monitoring and dose adjustments can help manage side effects and optimize results. At Trillium Med Spa, you’re seen weekly by physicians to assess your progress and discuss the therapy, ensuring that you get the best weight loss program near you. Choose us from the wide range of medical weight loss clinic options and experience the benefits of our med spa weight loss programs.
Frequently Asked Questions - All About Weight Loss Programs
Medical weight loss can be a worthwhile option for individuals who have struggled with losing weight through conventional methods like diet and exercise alone, especially if excess weight is affecting their health or quality of life. Here's a breakdown of why it might be beneficial, as well as some considerations:
Why Medical Weight Loss Can Be Worthwhile:
- Personalized Approach
Medical weight loss programs are tailored to the individual's specific health needs, making them more effective than generic diet plans for weight loss. A medical professional assesses factors like:- Medical history
- Metabolism
- Hormonal imbalances
- Existing conditions (like diabetes or hypothyroidism)
- Supervised by Healthcare Professionals
These programs are overseen by doctors and other healthcare professionals. This ensures that any weight loss is achieved in a safe, controlled manner, minimizing health risks like nutritional deficiencies or metabolic imbalances. It’s particularly useful for people with obesity-related health issues, such as:- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease
- Use of Medications or Treatments
For some individuals, prescription medications or medical treatments can significantly improve weight loss outcomes. Medications might be prescribed to:- Suppress appetite
- Boost metabolism
- Improve insulin sensitivity
- Potential for Lasting Results
As advanced medical weight loss programs are designed to address not just weight loss but overall health and well-being, they often lead to more sustainable long-term success. By focusing on lifestyle changes, patients are more likely to maintain their new weight after completing the program, reducing the likelihood of weight regain.
Considerations Before Opting for Medical Weight Loss:
- Commitment and Cost
Medical weight loss programs can require a significant time and financial investment. They often involve multiple consultations, follow-ups, and medications. While insurance may cover some aspects, the medicines are not covered by insurance. - Potential Side Effects
For those prescribed weight loss medications, there can be side effects, such as nausea, digestive issues, or changes in blood pressure. Not all medications work for everyone, so regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential to ensure safety. - May Not Be Quick
While medical weight loss programs aim for sustainable results, they aren’t a quick fix. Weight loss may be gradual but more lasting. Patience is necessary, as most programs focus on a slow, steady reduction in weight, which is safer and more maintainable in the long run.
Although the initial consultation is covered by medical insurance, the weekly medical treatments at Trillium Med Spa are not covered by insurance.
Medical weight loss is particularly beneficial for people who:
- Have a BMI over 30 or those with a BMI over 27 with obesity-related health issues.
- Have made unsuccessful attempts to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.
- Are at risk for or already experiencing obesity-related health conditions.
- Want a more personalized and medically supervised approach to weight loss, including medically supervised obesity management.
Depending on the therapy chosen, the cost of the medical weight loss program ranges between $400-$700 per month.
Yes, Ozempic (semaglutide) has been shown to be highly effective for weight loss, particularly in individuals with obesity or those who are overweight with related health conditions. While originally developed as a medication to manage type 2 diabetes, its ability to promote weight loss has garnered attention, leading to its use in weight management.
How Ozempic Works for Weight Loss:
Ozempic contains semaglutide, which mimics a hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) that the body naturally produces. This hormone plays a role in regulating blood sugar, insulin, and appetite. When used for weight loss, Ozempic:
- Reduces Appetite
- Slows Digestion
- Improves Blood Sugar Control: Better blood sugar control can also support weight loss by reducing insulin resistance, which is often associated with weight gain.
Both Wegovy and Ozempic (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide) are highly effective for weight loss, but Zepbound may offer slightly greater weight loss results according to clinical studies.
Wegovy and Ozempic (Semaglutide): Approved for weight management, Wegovy mimics the GLP-1 hormone, which helps reduce appetite and slows digestion. In clinical trials, people taking Wegovy lost an average of 15-18% of their body weight over 68 weeks.
Zepbound (Tirzepatide): Tirzepatide is a dual agonist, targeting both GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), which further enhances weight loss by regulating appetite and energy balance. In studies, Zepbound users experienced up to 20-22.5% body weight reduction over a similar period.
Which Is More Effective?
Zepbound has shown greater weight loss potential than Wegovy, likely due to its dual-action mechanism on both GLP-1 and GIP.
However, both are effective, and individual results may vary depending on factors like medical history, lifestyle, and tolerance to side effects.
Ultimately, the choice depends on personal health needs
How Trillium is Different from Other Med Spas?
Trillium Med Spa differentiates itself from other med spas through its personalized, medically-driven approach to beauty and wellness, ensuring high standards of care and advanced, science-based treatments.
1
Medical Expertise and Supervision
Unlike many traditional med spas, Trillium Med Spa operates under the direct supervision of a Board-Certified Dermatologist and Adjunct Professor of Dermatology at the Warren G Albert School of Medicine Brown University. This ensures that all procedures, from injectables to laser treatments, are performed with a strong focus on patient safety and medical precision. Clients can trust that their treatments are customized to their individual needs based on thorough medical evaluations, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
2
Comprehensive Wellness Programs
Trillium Med Spa goes beyond aesthetic services by integrating wellness-focused programs such as medical weight loss, IV Vitamin Therapy, and anti-aging therapies. These services cater to clients looking for holistic solutions to their health and beauty concerns. The Trillium Med Spa medical weight loss program, for instance, offers supervised weight management with advanced treatments like semaglutide and tirzepatide injections, a unique offering not commonly found in most med spas.
3
Cutting-Edge Technology
Trillium invests in the latest technologies for non-invasive and minimally invasive treatments. From laser resurfacing to AviClear for acne, to microneedling with Exosomes, the aesthetic technology deployed here is top-of-the-line, ensuring optimal results with minimal downtime. Trillium Med Spa stays ahead of trends and adopts evidence-based innovations that deliver effective, lasting results.
4
Client-Centered Experience
At Trillium Med Spa, the focus is on client satisfaction and long-term results. The spa offers personalized consultations where specialists create tailored treatment plans to address each client’s unique concerns, be it skin rejuvenation, fat reduction, or wellness improvement. The environment is designed to be welcoming, blending medical expertise with a luxurious spa experience for a blend of relaxation and high-quality care.
Book Your Appointment for Weight Loss Programs Today
Medical weight loss can be a highly effective and worthwhile option, especially for those struggling with excess weight and related health issues. It provides a safe, personalized, and structured approach to achieving long-term weight management goals.
However, it requires commitment, and potential participants should consider the time, cost, and lifestyle changes involved. When approached with realistic expectations and under professional supervision, medical weight loss can lead to lasting improvements in health and quality of life.
In summary, Trillium Med Spa sets itself apart by merging medical rigor with state-of-the-art aesthetics, offering clients both beauty and health benefits all under one roof. Centrally located on I-40 in Chapel Hill, we are convenient for patients from across the Research Triangle including Durham, Cary, Raleigh, Burlington, Mebane, Apex, Holly Springs, Hillsborough, Pittsboro, and Carrboro.
