Longevity and Cellular Aging
Slow cellular aging with Epithalon, NAD, mitochondrial peptides, and longevity diagnostics. The most-comprehensive longevity protocol available in Chicago.
Causes and Treatment
Cellular aging is the underlying driver of most age-related decline. As cells age, telomeres shorten, mitochondrial function decreases, autophagy slows, and inflammation rises. The visible effects (skin aging, declining energy, cognitive slowdown, cardiovascular issues) all trace back to cellular changes.
Better's longevity program targets cellular mechanisms directly:
- Epithalon (Cellular Longevity) is a peptide that activates telomerase and supports telomere length.
- SS-31 / Elamipretide (Core Spark) targets mitochondrial dysfunction at the source.
- NAD+ IV rebuilds the cellular energy currency that declines with age.
- Mots-c (Mito Energy) supports mitochondrial biogenesis.
Combined with comprehensive longevity diagnostics (Galleri, Total Wellness Panel), this is the most-comprehensive longevity protocol available in Chicago. Used by patients serious about extending healthspan, not just lifespan.
Better Med Spa's Recommended Treatments
Better's longevity protocol combines four primary tools.
Cellular Longevity (Epithalon)
Peptide that activates telomerase and supports telomere length. The most-direct cellular longevity intervention available. Cycled rather than continuous.
Cellular Reset (Epithalon + GHK-Cu)
Comprehensive cellular renewal protocol combining Epithalon with GHK-Cu (a copper peptide with widespread regenerative effects). The flagship Better longevity protocol.
Core Spark (SS-31 / Elamipretide)
Mitochondrial peptide that targets mitochondrial dysfunction at the source. Restores cellular energy production and reduces oxidative damage.
NAD+ IV
Cellular energy currency that declines with age. NAD IV directly replenishes levels and supports DNA repair, mitochondrial function, and cellular signaling.
Diagnostics first. Comprehensive longevity care starts with knowing your baseline. We typically pair the Galleri test, Total Wellness Intelligence Panel, and Comprehensive Hormone Panel as the diagnostic foundation before recommending peptide protocols.
How to Choose Between Them
Match the protocol to your goal.
| If you want | Choose |
|---|---|
| Telomere and cellular age focus | Cellular Longevity (Epithalon) |
| Comprehensive renewal protocol | Cellular Reset (Epithalon + GHK-Cu) |
| Mitochondrial focus | Core Spark (SS-31) |
| Foundational energy support | NAD+ IV series |
| Comprehensive longevity stack | All four tools combined with diagnostics |
| Premium longevity program | Cellular Reset + Core Spark + NAD + Galleri |
Longevity protocols are typically cycled rather than continuous. Most peptides run 8 to 12 weeks, then a break, then another cycle. NAD+ IV is a series of 3 to 5 with monthly maintenance.
Realistic expectations: longevity peptides aren't quick-fix interventions. The benefits compound over years and show up as maintained energy, cognition, body composition, and skin quality compared to peers.
What to Expect at Better Med Spa
Longevity consultations at Better start with a 60-minute discussion of your goals, current health status, family history, and any existing protocols. We typically recommend comprehensive diagnostics before any peptide protocol.
NAD+ IV: 60 to 90 minutes in clinic. Peptides are self-administered at home. Diagnostics are blood draws and stool samples with results in 1 to 3 weeks.
Dr. Brechner supervises all longevity protocols.
Ready to talk to one of our providers?
A 60-minute longevity consultation maps your goals and recommends the right protocol.
Before and After
See real Better Med Spa patient results in our gallery. Individual results vary based on starting point, dosage, and skin quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Epithalon really lengthen telomeres?
Studies suggest Epithalon activates telomerase and may slow telomere shortening. The clinical evidence is promising but not definitive. Better's protocol uses Epithalon as part of comprehensive longevity care, not as a standalone fountain-of-youth intervention.
How long does a longevity cycle last?
Most peptides run 8 to 12 weeks, then a break, then another cycle. Comprehensive programs typically run 2 to 3 cycles per year with diagnostics at baseline and annually.
When should I start longevity care?
Earlier is better. Most longevity benefits compound over years. Patients in their 30s and 40s often see the strongest preventive benefit. Patients in their 50s and beyond benefit from comprehensive care to slow age-related decline.
Most patients describe the injections as a series of small pinches. We use the smallest needles available and can apply topical numbing cream on request. The whole appointment is typically under 30 minutes including the consultation.
Is this covered by insurance?
Most longevity peptides are not covered by insurance. NAD+ IV may be partially covered in some HSAs. Diagnostic panels may have partial coverage. We discuss pricing at consultation.
How much does longevity care cost in Chicago?
Comprehensive longevity programs are priced as packages including diagnostics, peptides, IV protocols, and ongoing care. Single peptide cycles are priced as monthly protocols. See our Specials.
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Where We Serve
Better Med Spa is located in Lincoln Park and serves patients across Chicago, including Old Town, Lakeview, Bucktown, Gold Coast, DePaul, West Loop, and River North.
Ready to extend healthspan, not just lifespan?
Schedule a consultation and we will build a plan that fits you, your timeline, and your budget.