Entyce (Capromorelin) for Dogs

Entyce (Capromorelin) for Dogs is a vet-prescribed medication for reduced appetite in dogs. Entyce (capromorelin) is a prescription appetite stimulant for dogs, used when appetite is reduced by illness or treatment. A licensed veterinarian sets the right dose — never a website.

What it is

Entyce (capromorelin) is a prescription appetite stimulant for dogs, used when appetite is reduced by illness or treatment.

What it is used for

Veterinarians prescribe it for reduced appetite in dogs. Whether it is right for your pet, and at what dose, is a decision your veterinarian makes.

How dosing works

The correct amount depends on your pet's weight, species, other medications, and health — which is why a licensed veterinarian sets it, not a website. Your veterinarian reviews your pet and sets the prescription and dose for your animal.

How it works

Appetite is partly controlled by a hormone called ghrelin, often nicknamed the hunger hormone, which signals the brain that it is time to eat. Capromorelin is a ghrelin receptor agonist: it mimics ghrelin, switching on that same hunger signal, so a dog that has lost interest in food feels hungry again. It is given as an oral liquid.

What to expect

Many dogs begin eating more within a day or two. Because poor appetite is usually a symptom of something else, such as illness, pain, nausea, or the effects of another treatment, capromorelin is used alongside the search for and treatment of that underlying cause, not in place of it. Getting a dog eating again supports strength and recovery, but your veterinarian will still want to know why the appetite dropped.

Side effects and what to watch for

It is generally well tolerated. The effects reported most often are drooling, vomiting, and mild lethargy or a dazed look shortly after a dose. Most are mild. Tell your veterinarian if your dog vomits repeatedly, seems unwell, or still will not eat, since persistent inappetence can point to a problem that needs direct treatment.

Before giving it: cautions

Whether capromorelin is appropriate, and how much to give, depends on your dog's weight, health, and other medications, which is why a veterinarian sets it. It is used carefully in dogs with liver problems or certain hormone conditions, and your veterinarian will want a full medication list. It is labeled for dogs; use in cats is a separate decision your veterinarian makes.

Where it fits

Capromorelin gives veterinarians a direct way to stimulate appetite, which is valuable for dogs recovering from illness or surgery, coping with chronic disease, or dealing with the nausea of other treatments. It is often combined with anti-nausea medicine and treatment of the underlying problem. Your veterinarian will decide whether and how it fits your dog's recovery plan.

Questions to ask your veterinarian

If your veterinarian is considering this medication, these questions help you understand the plan:

• Why has my dog lost its appetite, and what else should we check?
• Is capromorelin the right choice, or should we treat nausea or pain too?
• How soon should I expect eating to improve?
• What side effects are normal, and which are not?
• When should I follow up if it is not working?

Frequently asked questions