Medical Weight Loss Clinic
Dr Brides offers a specialist clinic for obesity management and medical weight loss support. She has completed specialist training with the HSE in this area. Evidence has proven that the use of drugs such as Mounjaro and Wegovy are much more effective when used along with a supported medical nutrition and exercise interventions.
Medical Weight Loss Management Programme
At Monaghan Aesthetic Clinic, we understand that weight management is not just about appearance—it’s about improving health, confidence and quality of life. Our doctor-led Medical Weight Loss Management programme is designed for those who have tried traditional diets and exercise alone, but need additional medical support to reach their weight goals safely and sustainably.
What We Offer
A full medical consultation: assessment of your body mass index (BMI), health status, medical history, medications, and any weight-related conditions (e.g. high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea etc.).
Individualised treatment plan: combining lifestyle modifications (nutrition, exercise), behavioural support, and where appropriate, pharmacotherapy (medication) to accelerate or support weight loss.
Ongoing monitoring: regular follow-up appointments to track progress, adjust the plan, monitor for side effects, and help maintain weight loss long term.
Support services: nutritional counselling, coaching, possibly referrals for additional investigations if needed.
Prescription Weight Loss Drugs We Use
When appropriate, we may recommend prescription medications to assist with weight loss. Two of the most advanced, evidence-based options available are Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide). These are not “quick fixes,” but powerful tools when used under medical supervision and integrated into a broader health plan. We also offer other alternative options.
Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)
What it is:
Mounjaro is an injectable medication used once weekly. It works by acting on two gut hormones: GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) and GIP (Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide). These help reduce appetite, increase feelings of fullness, and help regulate blood sugar.
Who it may be suitable for:
Adults with obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²) or overweight (BMI ≥ 27 kg/m²) with weight-related health conditions.
Those who have been unable to lose sufficient weight through diet and exercise alone.
How it is administered:
Once-weekly self-injection under the skin (abdomen, thigh, or upper arm).
Treatment usually starts with a lower dose to help your body adapt, then increases as tolerated.
Effectiveness:
Clinical trials show that, when combined with lifestyle changes, many people lose a significant percentage of their body weight over time (often ≥ 15% in many cases over many months).
Potential side effects & risks:
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, stomach discomfort. As with all medications, there may be more serious risks in people with certain conditions. It is not suitable if pregnant, breastfeeding, or in certain pre-existing medical conditions. Close monitoring is required.
Wegovy (Semaglutide)
What it is:
Wegovy is another injectable medication given once weekly. It is a GLP-1 receptor agonist (so works via GLP-1 pathways) that helps reduce hunger, increase fullness, and slow stomach emptying.
Who it may suit:
Adults with obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²) or overweight (BMI ≥ 27 kg/m²) plus at least one obesity-related health condition.
Those able to commit to the lifestyle and follow-up required.
How it is administered:
Weekly injection.
Dosing is gradually increased (“titrated”) from a low starting dose to higher doses over time to balance effectiveness vs side effects.
Effectiveness:
Many clinical studies report ~15% average weight loss over 12 months when Wegovy is combined with diet, exercise, and behavioural support.
Risks & side effects:
Similar to other GLP-1 drugs: gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea), sometimes risk of gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, etc.
Not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Dose adjustments required in those with kidney/liver disease or certain other conditions.
Why Choose Medical-Supervised Weight Loss
Safety: Medical oversight reduces risks, ensures any medications are used properly and that side effects are managed.
Personalisation: Everyone’s body responds differently; what works for one person may not for another. We tailor the plan to you.
Sustainability: The goal is not just losing weight, but keeping it off. That means long-term behavioural changes, mindset, diet, activity, plus any medical therapy.
Holistic support: We consider overall health—not just the number on the scale. This includes metabolic health, mental well-being, sleep, stress, etc.
What to Expect at Monaghan Aesthetic Clinic
Initial Consultation – We take a full history, physical exam, measure BMI, check for relevant blood tests, discuss your goals and expectations.
Plan Design – We agree a treatment plan: nutrition, lifestyle, behaviour, possibly a weight loss drug if appropriate.
Regular Follow-ups – To monitor weight, side effects, adjust medication, and support you with diet / exercise.
Maintenance Phase – Once target weight or a plateau is reached, we help maintain that weight, adjusting your plan, possibly tapering medication, and helping prevent regain.
Important Considerations & Disclaimers
Not everyone is suitable for weight loss medications; there must be medical justification.
These drugs are prescription only, and only meaningful when used with lifestyle changes.
Medical insurance / reimbursement may or may not cover these medications in Ireland currently; patients should check costs. Various recent news indicates that there are discussions about curbs or eligibility criteria in Irish health policy for Mounjaro and Wegovy.
The clinic’s commitment is to safe, evidence-based treatment under doctor supervision.
Weight Loss Management Prices:
Initial Consultation €100
Follow Up €60