Fat Burning Support (AOD-9604)
Lincoln Park, Chicago

Starting at $300

Better Med Spa’s Fat Burning Support program uses AOD‑9604, a synthetic fragment of human growth hormone that targets fat metabolism pathways to support lipolysis and limit new fat storage, especially when combined with diet and exercise. Because AOD‑9604 is not FDA‑approved and cannot be compounded under current guidance, it is offered only under a strict informed consent framework with full transparency about its investigational status, potential risks, and mixed efficacy data.

Questions?

We're here to answer your questions and provide the best services for your needs.

What is AOD‑9604 and how is it different from GLP‑1 medications?

AOD‑9604 is a synthetic fragment of human growth hormone designed to influence fat metabolism, whereas GLP‑1 medications like Semaglutide act on gut and brain hormone pathways to reduce appetite and improve blood sugar. AOD‑9604 does not meaningfully increase GH or IGF‑1 levels and is considered a modest, mechanistic fat‑support peptide rather than a cornerstone obesity treatment.

Is AOD‑9604 FDA‑approved?

No. AOD‑9604 is not FDA‑approved for any medical indication, and FDA advisory documents note concerns about immunogenicity, peptide-related impurities, and lack of sufficient safety and efficacy data. Better Med Spa offers Fat Burning Support only under a non‑FDA–approved informed consent model that clearly explains this status and presents it as an optional adjunct, not a standard-of-care obesity therapy.

How effective is AOD‑9604 for fat loss?

Early and smaller studies suggested effects on fat metabolism and body fat distribution, but larger obesity trials did not show a robust, clinically meaningful weight loss outcome on their own. At Better Med Spa, AOD‑9604 is framed as a potential “nudge” for fat metabolism that only makes sense when layered onto disciplined nutrition, movement, and sometimes GLP‑1 or other medical therapies.

What are the risks or side effects?

Reported side effects are typically mild—such as injection-site irritation, headache, or fatigue—but regulatory reviews highlight potential immunogenicity and uncertainties around long-term safety and product quality in compounded or non‑approved forms. For that reason, Better Med Spa uses strict sourcing standards, dosing protocols, and informed consent, and may not recommend AOD‑9604 for clients with autoimmune conditions or high risk tolerance concerns.

How does Fat Burning Support fit into Better Med Spa programs?

Fat Burning Support is positioned as an add‑on for motivated clients who are already in structured weight-loss or body-contouring programs and want every safe, transparent tool available. It can be paired with GLP‑1s, Tesamorelin, Sleep & Sculpt, IV metabolic support, and K‑Beauty–inspired facials and body treatments, with memberships and follow-ups designed to track progress, adjust protocols, and protect long-term health and trust.

How It Works

AOD‑9604 is a modified fragment of the C‑terminal region of human growth hormone (amino acids 177–191) that appears to mimic GH’s effects on fat metabolism without significantly affecting IGF‑1 or overall growth hormone levels. Preclinical and early human data suggest it may promote lipolysis, inhibit lipogenesis, and preferentially act on adipose tissue by influencing beta‑3 adrenergic–mediated pathways and hormone‑sensitive lipase activity. However, large obesity trials did not show clinically meaningful weight loss, and regulators have raised concerns about immunogenicity and safety data gaps, which is why Better Med Spa restricts its use to clearly informed, highly selected clients.

What It Targets

Our AOD-9604 peptides are designed to target:

  • Stubborn body fat and slow fat loss in clients already working on nutrition, steps, and strength training.​
  • Mild to moderate central adiposity where clients want incremental support rather than a primary weight-loss medication.​
  • Clients who cannot or do not wish to use GLP‑1s but still want to explore peptide-based metabolic support under a transparent risk–benefit discussion.​
  • Aesthetic-focused body recomposition journeys where even small improvements in fat–muscle balance can enhance contouring results.

Benefits

AOD-9604 is believed to help with:

  • Mechanistically designed to support fat breakdown and reduce new fat formation while having minimal direct impact on blood sugar and IGF‑1.​
  • May offer modest additional help with fat metabolism when combined with calorie control and exercise, particularly in higher‑adiposity individuals.​
  • Typically administered as a daily subcutaneous injection in low doses, integrated into a broader metabolic and lifestyle protocol.​
  • Long‑term clinical safety data show generally good tolerability in studied populations, but regulators have highlighted unresolved immunogenicity and impurity concerns, so usage must remain cautious and fully consented.​
  • Positioned as an optional, supportive layer—not a stand‑alone weight-loss solution—with emphasis on lab monitoring, habit coaching, and realistic expectations.​
Your Treatment

Experience the best in aesthetic and wellness care at Better Med Spa. Our personalized treatments are tailored to you, designed to help you look and feel your absolute best with confidence and ease.

Better Med Spa hours
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs:
10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Fri, Sat, Sun:
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Past Client Experiences

"I have noticed a significant difference in the overall appearance of my skin and my friends and family have as well. I am excited to come in for follow-up sessions!"

"I came in 2 weeks ago for their Green Peel, which is a natural facial peel formulated with algae. It was my first time doing a skin peel so I was a bit anxious, but my tech Priscilla did a great job of informing me about the treatment throughout the process and about the aftercare."

Signature from Kat Z.
Chicago, IL

"Overall - phenomenal experience. Staff from the estheticians to the front desk were so knowledgeable and kind."

"I got the Personalized Facial with a complimentary skin consultation with Xia. And it was so beyond amazing. This was by far one of the most intensive facials that I have ever gotten and I loved how much attention to detail Xia had throughout our entire session."

Signature from Annie Y.
Austin, TX

"Outstanding service and spa."

"The Glass Facial was amazing. They specialize in Korean Beauty and only use products gentle for your skin unlike many Western treatments. My skin looks great even days later. I still have a glow and glass look with just simple skin care and moisturizing like I normally do. I definitely recommend this salon and suggest you try the K-Beauty services!"

Signature from Ashley R.
Chicago, IL

"This is definitely a place I trust and will keep coming back to for my future skincare treatments. Plus, reasonable price! Highly recommended!"

"It has been a month since I got Rejuran, and at least six people have complimented my skin since then! Izzy is amazing, her technique is professional and surprisingly painless, but what impressed me the most is her sense of aesthetics. She really listened to what I wanted, communicated actively with me, and confirmed everything carefully until I felt completely comfortable."

Signature from Yuxin Z.
Chicago, IL

"The spa was clean, relaxing, and welcoming. My skin feels so smooth and fresh, and I left glowing."

"I had my very first facial today with Hailey and it was such a great experience! I booked the aromatherapy, dermaplaning, glass skin facial, and LED light treatment, and she walked me through every step so I felt comfortable the whole time. She made sure I was comfortable and explained what each product was doing. I’ll definitely be coming back and recommending this place to friends!"

Signature from Gabrielle B.
Chicago, IL

"I am so grateful that I did my facial treatment at Better Med Spa, the place is very cozy and they are all professional with a warm personality."

"I had my facial treatment with Hailey. She provided me with comprehensive information about facial and its effects on my skin. I’m so happy, satisfied and delighted with the result. Her kindness and outstanding professionalism are truly INCREDIBLE."

Signature from Loreme R.
Chicago, IL

"From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was welcoming and relaxing. I noticed an immediate glow to my skin and am excited to see the long-term results as my skin continues to heal. Highly recommend!"

"My esthetician was incredibly nice and took the time to explain the entire process to me, which really put me at ease. I appreciated how she tailored the treatment to my skin's needs, ensuring I received the best possible results. After the session, she provided me with thorough aftercare instructions, which I found very helpful."

Signature from Cindy T.
Chicago, IL

"I went in with no clear expectations because it isn't something that I've ever done before. I will definitely be doing it again every time I'm in Chicago for another visit."

"Grace did a fantastic job. I don't have anything to compare it with, but the full service felt amazing. I was surprised by the number of steps included and how involved it ended up being. Head massage, facial massage, neck and shoulder massage, forearm and hand massage, all while working through multiple steps of the facial cleanse and treatment process. It was great. I'll be back again."

Signature from Jacob B.
Chicago, IL

"Loved my experience at Better Med Spa! Super friendly, very informative, and excellent at what they do."

"Went in for microneedling and EZ Gel. I felt confident and comfortable the whole time. Highly recommend!"



Signature from Jocelyn M.
Chicago, IL

"I absolutely look forward to coming here every month to get service by the wonderful ladies who work at this spa."

"The results are truly unbelievable and I’m left speechless each time I leave. I would highly recommend buying a membership it helps you pour into yourself monthly and the results and satisfaction won’t disappoint!"

Signature from Rochaela B.
Chicago, IL