Weight Management Clinic at Edenpark Medical

 

Start your path to a healthy weight.…

Here at Edenpark we understand that obesity is a chronic, progressive, relapsing disease and there is no “one size fits all” treatment.

We will work with you to develop a realistic treatment plan that suits you and fits in with your lifestyle.

Our nurse specialist Ciara Donaghue takes an expert, holistic approach to weight loss management based on the tailored application of the three principle pillars of treatment.

Behavioural Interventions

  • Exercise as medicine

  • Medical nutritional therapy

  • Psychological support

  • Stress management

  • Sleep hygiene

Pharmacotherapy

There are currently 3 different types of medications licenced in Ireland for weight management – lipase inhibitors, GLP-1 agonist, GIP+GLP-1 agonists. These are better known by their trade names Orlistat, Liraglutide (Saxenda), Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy), and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro).

Together we can choose the one that is right for you if this is considered necessary or beneficial  

Bariatric Surgery

We do not perform bariatric surgery but we can help with onward referral and are experienced in providing support and aftercare where surgery has been carried out

 
 

Your consultation will include:

  • Full assessment of your weight loss journey and its impact on your health

  • Physical examination including blood testing if appropriate

  • Discussion on treatment options and how we can help improve your overall health and day-to-day living

  • Support and follow-up as required

 
 

Nurse Ciara Donaghue

RGN, RNP, Msc Obesity, PGDip Emg. Nursing

Ciara trained in the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in the UK and returned to Dublin in 2004, after which she worked in Beaumont Hospital gaining experience in a variety of medical and surgical fields, including 8 years working in the Emergency Department.

A qualified nurse prescriber, Ciara recently completed a Master of Science in Obesity in University College Galway.  She is an avid traveller and cyclist.

 
 
 
 

Medication FAQs

What follow-up care is provided?

Most medications require dose titration. You will be contacted before any dose increases to ensure appropriate dosing and to assess for potential side effects. You can contact the clinic at any time for advice if needed.

Are these medications safe?

All medications prescribed are authorised by the Health Products Regulatory Authority. Their safety and efficacy have been demonstrated in clinical trials to help treat the disease of obesity. Potential risks and side effects can be discussed in depth during your consultation.

Are there side effects?

The most commonly reported side effects in clinical trials were gastrointestinal related, e.g. nausea, diarrhoea, and constipation. In general reactions were mild or moderate and of relatively short duration. Potential side effects and their management will be discussed during your consultation.

Can these medications be taken during pregnancy?

There is not enough information on the impact of these medications in pregnancy. It is therefore recommended that women of childbearing potential use contraception during treatment. It is advised to come off these medications at least 3 months before planned pregnancy due to the long half-life. 

How much do these medications cost?

Cost depends on the type of medications a person wants to take. Prescriptions are sent to the pharmacy of your choice.  Medications and consultation costs are tax deductible.

 
 

Resources:

HSE Obesity Resource: causes, diagnosis and treatment: https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/obesity/

Irish Coalition for People Living with Obesity - patient voice and support: https://icpobesity.org/

Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Obesity in Adults: https://asoi.info/guidelines/

Safefood, healthy weight 12-week weight-loss programme: https://www.safefood.net/healthy-weight

Why weight loss can be so challenging: https://www.ted.com/talks/katherine_saunders_why_your_body_fights_weight_loss?

 
 

Fees:

Initial consultation fee (30 min):
Existing patients of Edenpark Medical €100 // New patients €140

Follow up and review consultation fee (15 min):
Existing patients of Edenpark Medical €60 // New patients €70

**Please note that all patients require review three months after commencing pharmacological treatment