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Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our physician-supervised protocols, medications, and clinical process.

General

What is AlphaBoost Medical Clinic?

AlphaBoost is a physician-supervised medical wellness clinic in Sterling, Virginia specializing in hormone optimization, medical weight loss, regenerative therapies, sexual wellness, and aesthetic services for both men and women.

Where is AlphaBoost located?

AlphaBoost Medical Clinic is located in Sterling, Virginia.

Is AlphaBoost a med spa?

No. AlphaBoost is a fully licensed medical facility. All treatments are prescribed, supervised, and monitored by a board-certified physician — not a med spa, telehealth app, or wellness subscription.

Do I need a referral to be seen at AlphaBoost?

No referral is needed. You can book a consultation directly through our website or by calling the clinic.

Do you accept walk-in appointments?

No, appointments are required for all services. You can schedule online or by calling the clinic directly.

Who is the Medical Director at AlphaBoost?

Dr. Mohamad Zanbrakji is our Medical Director — a board-certified general surgeon and critical care physician with more than a decade of clinical experience.

Does AlphaBoost accept insurance?

Most services at AlphaBoost are not covered by traditional insurance plans. We offer transparent, upfront pricing with no hidden fees.

Do you accept HSA or FSA cards?

Yes. HSA and FSA cards are accepted for applicable services.

What makes AlphaBoost different from other clinics?

Every protocol is designed and supervised by a board-certified physician based on your individual labs and biology. We use pharmaceutical-grade medications sourced from licensed U.S. pharmacies, and we include ongoing monitoring and direct physician access in every treatment.

Is AlphaBoost a telehealth service?

No. AlphaBoost is a brick-and-mortar medical clinic. Patients are seen in person by our physician and clinical team.

What services does AlphaBoost offer?

We offer testosterone replacement therapy, hormone replacement therapy, GLP-1 medical weight loss, physician-supervised peptide therapy protocols, IV therapy, laser hair removal, PRP hair restoration, the Vampire Facelift, Vampire Facial, Vampire Breast Lift, the P-Shot, O-Shot, penile enhancement (AlphaFill), and penile Botox.

Do you treat both men and women?

Yes. AlphaBoost offers services tailored to both men and women, including hormone therapy, weight loss, aesthetics, and sexual wellness.

How do I book a consultation?

You can book a consultation through the scheduling system on our website or by calling the clinic directly.

Is there a cost for the initial consultation?

Please contact the clinic directly for current consultation pricing and any promotional offers.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Bring a valid photo ID, a list of current medications and supplements, and any recent lab work you may have from another provider.

Are your medications pharmaceutical-grade?

Yes. AlphaBoost uses pharmaceutical-grade compounds across all treatment protocols. Quality, purity, and proper sourcing are foundational to how we operate.

Do you monitor patients with lab work?

Yes. Regular bloodwork is included in every treatment protocol. Labs are reviewed by the physician and dosing is adjusted based on your response.

What if a treatment is not right for me?

If a treatment is not the right fit, we will tell you directly and discuss alternative options. We never pressure patients into services that are not clinically appropriate.

What happens at a first consultation?

You meet one-on-one with the physician to discuss symptoms, health history, and goals. There is no pressure or upselling — just an honest evaluation of your situation and treatment options.

How long does it take to start treatment?

After your consultation and lab work, most patients receive their treatment protocol within a few days of lab results returning. Timelines vary by service.

Can I bring lab work from another provider?

Yes. Existing labs from another provider can be incorporated into your evaluation, though additional testing may be recommended depending on the service.

How often will I have follow-up appointments?

Follow-up frequency depends on the treatment. Most hormone and weight loss patients have regular check-ins tied to their lab monitoring schedule, typically every few weeks during the initial phase.

TRT

What is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)?

TRT is a physician-supervised treatment that restores testosterone to optimal levels using bioidentical testosterone. It addresses symptoms like fatigue, low libido, brain fog, muscle loss, and mood changes in both men and women.

Is TRT available for women?

Yes. Women produce testosterone too, and their levels decline significantly between ages 20 and 40. Low-dose testosterone therapy can improve energy, libido, mood, and cognitive function — especially during perimenopause and menopause.

What symptoms indicate I might have low testosterone?

Common symptoms include persistent fatigue, stubborn belly fat, declining libido, brain fog, loss of muscle mass, irritability, and mood swings. In women, symptoms also include weight gain around the midsection and decreased bone density.

How is testosterone delivered?

Delivery methods include weekly injections, topical creams or gels, and pellet therapy. The physician selects the method best suited to your biology and lifestyle.

How quickly will I see results from TRT?

Most patients notice improvements in energy and mood within two to three weeks. Body composition and strength changes typically become apparent by eight to twelve weeks.

Is TRT safe?

When prescribed and monitored by a qualified physician, TRT has an established safety profile backed by decades of clinical research. We monitor labs regularly and manage ancillary markers proactively.

What labs are included in TRT?

A comprehensive hormone panel including total and free testosterone, estradiol, SHBG, CBC, metabolic markers, and additional tests tailored to your individual needs.

Will TRT cause side effects?

Side effects are uncommon when therapy is properly dosed and monitored. Potential effects in men may include acne or elevated red blood cell count. In women, improper dosing could cause acne or unwanted hair growth, which is why careful physician supervision is essential.

What is the difference between TRT and full hormone replacement therapy?

TRT focuses specifically on testosterone optimization. Our full HRT program evaluates and treats the entire hormonal ecosystem — including estrogen, progesterone, thyroid, DHEA, and cortisol — for a more comprehensive approach.

Do you use bioidentical testosterone?

Yes. We exclusively use pharmaceutical-grade bioidentical testosterone sourced from licensed, accredited U.S. compounding pharmacies.

HRT

What is hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?

HRT is a comprehensive program that evaluates and optimizes the full hormonal ecosystem — testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, thyroid, DHEA, cortisol, and metabolic markers — using bioidentical hormones tailored to your unique physiology.

How does HRT differ from TRT alone?

TRT addresses testosterone only. HRT takes a holistic view of the endocrine system, identifying and treating imbalances across all major hormonal axes for a more complete solution.

What hormones does the HRT program evaluate?

The program evaluates testosterone (free and total), estrogen, progesterone, thyroid hormones (T3, T4, TSH), DHEA, cortisol, SHBG, and metabolic markers including insulin sensitivity.

What are bioidentical hormones?

Bioidentical hormones are molecularly identical to the hormones your body produces naturally. They bind to receptors the same way your own hormones do, resulting in more predictable responses and fewer side effects compared to synthetic alternatives.

Is HRT appropriate for perimenopause and menopause?

Yes. HRT is commonly used to address symptoms of perimenopause, menopause, and andropause, as well as early hormonal decline that can begin in the 30s and 40s.

How soon will I notice results from HRT?

Most patients begin noticing improvements in energy, sleep quality, and mood within two to four weeks. Changes in libido, body composition, and mental clarity typically become more pronounced between weeks six and twelve.

Is HRT covered by insurance?

Most hormone optimization therapies are not covered by traditional insurance. We offer transparent, all-inclusive pricing. HSA and FSA cards are accepted.

Who is a good candidate for HRT?

Anyone experiencing persistent fatigue, weight gain, brain fog, mood changes, low libido, or poor sleep despite a healthy lifestyle may be a candidate. The only way to know is through a consultation and comprehensive lab work.

Weight Loss

What is the medical weight loss program at AlphaBoost?

Our program is built on GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy — the most significant advancement in obesity medicine in decades. These physician-supervised medications reduce appetite at the neurological level and deliver sustained fat loss.

What are GLP-1 medications?

GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of medication that mimics a natural hormone your body produces to regulate appetite and blood sugar. They signal fullness to the brain, slow gastric emptying, and reduce cravings. Brand names in this class include Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound.

How much weight can I expect to lose?

Clinical trials demonstrate average weight loss of 15 to 20 percent of total body weight with GLP-1 medications. Individual results vary, and most patients begin seeing meaningful results within four to eight weeks.

How are the medications administered?

GLP-1 medications are administered as a simple once-weekly injection. There are no daily pills or meal plans required.

What side effects should I expect?

The most common side effects are gastrointestinal — mild nausea, reduced appetite, and occasional digestive changes — and are typically temporary, especially during the initial dose titration period.

Do I need to follow a specific diet on the medication?

No extreme or restrictive diets are prescribed. The medication naturally reduces appetite, making it easier to eat less and make better choices. General nutritional guidance is provided to maximize results.

Who is a good candidate for GLP-1 therapy?

Adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or a BMI of 27 or above with at least one weight-related health condition, are generally candidates. Patients who have struggled with traditional methods often benefit most.

Will I regain the weight if I stop the medication?

The goal is to build sustainable habits while the medication reduces biological barriers. Some patients transition to a maintenance dose, while others maintain results through lifestyle changes. A long-term plan is created for every patient.

Is the weight loss program physician-supervised?

Yes. Every protocol is prescribed and supervised by Dr. Zanbrakji. Regular lab work, dosing adjustments, and in-person check-ins are included.

Peptides

What is peptide therapy?

Peptide therapy involves physician-designed protocols using therapeutic peptides — naturally occurring chains of amino acids — to support specific biological processes like recovery, sleep, body composition, and cellular health. All protocols at AlphaBoost are designed by our physician using pharmaceutical-grade compounds and include full medical oversight throughout treatment.

How does peptide therapy work at AlphaBoost?

Our physician evaluates each patient individually — reviewing labs, health history, and goals — then designs a personalized peptide protocol using pharmaceutical-grade compounds. Treatment is administered on-site by our medical staff, and the physician provides oversight throughout the entire course of therapy.

Do I need a consultation before starting peptide therapy?

Yes. All peptide protocols at AlphaBoost begin with a physician consultation and clinical evaluation. This ensures the right pharmaceutical-grade compounds are selected for your specific needs, properly dosed, and medically supervised throughout treatment.

What can peptide therapy help with?

Physician-supervised peptide protocols may support recovery and tissue repair, body composition optimization, sleep quality, cellular health and longevity, immune function, and metabolic efficiency.

How long until I see results from peptide therapy?

Some patients notice improvements in sleep and recovery within the first few weeks. Body composition and other changes typically develop over eight to twelve weeks of consistent use.

Can peptide therapy be combined with other treatments?

Yes. Many patients use physician-prescribed peptide protocols alongside hormone optimization or medical weight loss. The physician evaluates the full treatment plan to ensure everything works together safely.

Who is a good candidate for peptide therapy?

Patients who are training and eating right but still dealing with slow recovery, poor sleep, stubborn body composition, or low energy may benefit. Candidacy is determined through consultation and lab evaluation.

Is peptide therapy safe?

When prescribed and monitored by a qualified physician using pharmaceutical-grade compounds, peptide therapy has a favorable safety profile. All protocols at AlphaBoost include regular check-ins, medical oversight, and ongoing monitoring by our clinical team.

How much does peptide therapy cost?

Peptide therapy pricing depends on the specific protocol our physician designs for you — because every patient's needs are different. During your consultation, the physician will evaluate your labs and goals, recommend the most appropriate protocol, and walk you through pricing. Everything is administered on-site by our medical staff.

Can I start peptide therapy without a consultation?

A physician consultation is required before beginning any peptide protocol. This ensures our medical team selects the most appropriate pharmaceutical-grade compounds for your specific biology and goals, establishes proper dosing, and sets up the monitoring needed for safe, effective treatment.

What peptides do you offer?

Our physician selects the most appropriate pharmaceutical-grade compounds for each patient based on their labs, health history, and treatment goals. Rather than offering a fixed menu, we take an evidence-based approach — designing protocols around what the research supports and what your body specifically needs. The best way to learn what your protocol might include is to schedule a consultation.

How is your peptide therapy different from buying peptides online?

Online peptides come with significant risks — unknown purity, no dosing guidance, and zero medical oversight. At AlphaBoost, your peptide protocol is designed by a licensed physician, uses pharmaceutical-grade compounds, is dosed based on your labs, and is administered on-site by our clinical staff. You get proper medical supervision and the convenience of in-house treatment — not self-experimentation with unregulated products.

IV Therapy

What is IV therapy?

IV therapy delivers vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and hydration directly into the bloodstream through a small catheter, bypassing the digestive system for higher absorption than oral supplements.

What conditions does IV therapy help with?

IV therapy may support hydration and recovery, immune function, energy and mental clarity, athletic performance, and nutrient optimization — particularly for patients who are not absorbing nutrients effectively through oral supplementation.

How long does an IV infusion take?

Most infusions take 30 to 60 minutes. Patients can relax, read, or work during the session.

How soon will I feel results from IV therapy?

Many patients notice improved energy and hydration within hours of their first infusion. For ongoing goals like immune support, consistent sessions over several weeks produce the best results.

Is IV therapy safe?

Yes. All infusions are administered by clinical staff under physician oversight using sterile, medical-grade equipment and pharmaceutical-quality nutrients.

Can IV therapy be combined with other treatments?

Yes. Many patients incorporate IV therapy alongside hormone optimization, peptide protocols, or medical weight loss for comprehensive support.

Laser & Hair

What is laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal is a medical-grade treatment that uses concentrated light energy to target and disable hair follicles beneath the skin, delivering long-lasting smoothness compared to shaving or waxing.

Is laser hair removal safe for all skin types?

Yes. Our medical-grade laser systems are designed to treat a wide range of skin tones safely. The laser wavelength and energy settings are adjusted for each patient during consultation.

How many laser sessions will I need?

Most patients achieve optimal results with six to eight sessions spaced four to six weeks apart. Hair grows in cycles, and multiple sessions ensure every follicle is treated during its active growth phase.

Does laser hair removal hurt?

Most patients describe the sensation as a mild, warm snap — far more comfortable than waxing. Our systems feature built-in cooling technology to minimize discomfort.

What areas can be treated with laser hair removal?

Virtually any area — legs, back, chest, bikini line, face, underarms, neck, shoulders, abdomen, and more. The treatment is available for both men and women.

How should I prepare for a laser hair removal session?

Shave the treatment area 24 to 48 hours before your appointment. Avoid waxing, plucking, or threading for at least four weeks prior. Stay out of direct sun and discontinue self-tanners for at least two weeks.

How long do laser hair removal results last?

After completing the full series, most patients experience significant, long-lasting hair reduction that persists for months to years. Periodic maintenance sessions — typically once or twice per year — can address any fine regrowth.

Who performs laser hair removal at AlphaBoost?

Laser hair removal is performed by Amanda Rose, RN — a clinical aesthetics nurse with advanced training in laser technology and an extensive background in emergent care.

Is there downtime after laser hair removal?

No. Most patients experience only mild redness that resolves within a few hours and can return to their normal routine immediately.

What is PRP hair restoration?

PRP hair treatment uses concentrated growth factors from your own blood to stimulate dormant hair follicles and promote natural hair regrowth. It is minimally invasive with no downtime.

How many PRP hair sessions do I need?

A typical initial protocol involves three to four sessions spaced four to six weeks apart, followed by maintenance sessions every three to six months.

When will I see results from PRP hair treatment?

Most patients notice reduced shedding within four to six weeks. Visible improvements in density typically appear between three and six months, with continued improvement through twelve months.

Is PRP hair treatment painful?

Most patients find it very tolerable. A topical numbing agent is applied before injections. Patients typically report mild pressure, and any tenderness resolves within 24 hours.

Who is a good candidate for PRP hair restoration?

Men and women with early to moderate hair thinning who still have active follicles. PRP works best when started before significant baldness has occurred.

How does PRP compare to hair transplant surgery?

PRP is non-surgical and stimulates existing follicles to produce thicker hair. Transplants physically relocate follicles. PRP can also be used alongside transplants to enhance healing and graft survival.

PRP Aesthetics

What is the Vampire Facelift?

The Vampire Facelift is a non-surgical facial rejuvenation procedure combining PRP therapy with hyaluronic acid dermal fillers to naturally lift, restore volume, smooth fine lines, and improve skin texture.

How long does the Vampire Facelift take?

The complete procedure typically takes 60 to 90 minutes including blood draw, PRP preparation, filler placement, and PRP injection.

How long do Vampire Facelift results last?

Results typically last 12 to 18 months. Many patients schedule annual maintenance treatments.

Is there downtime after the Vampire Facelift?

Downtime is minimal. Mild redness, slight swelling, or minor bruising at injection sites typically resolves within 24 to 72 hours.

What is the Vampire Facial?

The Vampire Facial combines PRP with medical-grade micro-needling to boost collagen, smooth fine lines, shrink pores, and restore a radiant glow — without injectable fillers.

What is the difference between the Vampire Facial and the Vampire Facelift?

The Vampire Facial uses PRP plus micro-needling to improve skin texture, tone, and surface quality. The Vampire Facelift uses PRP plus dermal fillers to restore lost volume and lift facial contours. Your provider can help determine which is right for you.

How long do Vampire Facial results last?

Results can last six months to over a year. Many patients schedule maintenance treatments every six to twelve months.

Is the Vampire Facial painful?

Most patients find it very tolerable. A topical numbing cream is applied before treatment. Patients describe the sensation as mild vibration or light prickling.

What is the Vampire Breast Lift?

The Vampire Breast Lift is a non-surgical procedure that uses PRP from your own blood to improve breast shape, restore subtle fullness, and rejuvenate the appearance of the chest — without implants.

Is the Vampire Breast Lift a substitute for implants?

No. The procedure enhances and rejuvenates rather than dramatically increasing size. It is ideal for women wanting natural improvement in shape, skin quality, and subtle fullness.

How long do Vampire Breast Lift results last?

Results typically last 12 to 18 months. Many patients schedule annual maintenance treatments.

Who performs the Vampire procedures at AlphaBoost?

All Vampire procedures — the Facelift, Facial, and Breast Lift — are performed by Amanda Rose, RN, who was trained directly by Dr. Charles Runels, the physician who created these procedures.

What is your relationship with Dr. Charles Runels?

AlphaBoost maintains an exclusive consulting relationship with Dr. Runels, giving our team direct access to the latest refinements in PRP technique, protocols, and best practices.

Sexual Wellness

What is AlphaFill?

AlphaFill is our proprietary non-surgical penile enhancement procedure using hyaluronic acid dermal filler to increase girth, improve symmetry, and enhance appearance — without surgery or implants.

How much girth does AlphaFill add?

Most patients achieve an increase of approximately one to two inches in circumference, though results vary based on anatomy and volume of filler used.

Is AlphaFill reversible?

Yes. Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. This reversibility is a key advantage over surgical alternatives.

How long do AlphaFill results last?

Results typically last 12 to 24 months. Many patients schedule periodic maintenance sessions to sustain results.

What is recovery like after AlphaFill?

Most patients return to non-strenuous daily activities the same day. Mild swelling or tenderness is normal for two to five days. Sexual activity is typically cleared after four to six weeks.

What is the P-Shot?

The P-Shot (Priapus Shot) is a non-surgical, PRP-based treatment that improves erectile quality, sensitivity, and blood flow to penile tissue using growth factors from your own blood.

How soon do P-Shot results appear?

Some patients notice improvements within two to four weeks. Full results typically develop over two to three months as PRP stimulates tissue regeneration.

How long do P-Shot results last?

Results typically last 12 to 18 months. Many patients repeat the procedure annually for sustained benefits.

Can the P-Shot be combined with TRT?

Yes. The P-Shot is frequently combined with testosterone replacement therapy for enhanced sexual wellness results.

What is the O-Shot?

The O-Shot (Orgasm Shot) is a non-surgical PRP treatment for women that enhances sexual arousal, orgasm intensity, natural lubrication, and may improve mild urinary stress incontinence.

Who performs the O-Shot at AlphaBoost?

The O-Shot is performed by Amanda Rose, RN — a Certified O-Shot Provider trained directly by Dr. Charles Runels, the physician who created the procedure.

How soon do O-Shot results appear?

Some patients notice improvements within one to two weeks. Full results typically develop over four to eight weeks.

Can the O-Shot help with urinary incontinence?

The O-Shot may improve symptoms of mild urinary stress incontinence. This benefit is discussed during the consultation to determine if the procedure is appropriate for your specific situation.

What is penile Botox?

Penile Botox involves injecting botulinum toxin into the smooth muscle of the penis to promote tissue relaxation, which may result in a fuller flaccid appearance and improved blood flow.

How long do penile Botox results last?

Effects typically last three to six months. Many patients schedule maintenance treatments to sustain results.

Can penile Botox be combined with other treatments?

Yes. Penile Botox can be combined with the P-Shot or AlphaFill for a comprehensive enhancement approach.

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