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Capromorelin, sold under the brand names Entyce and Elura, is a medication used for the management of weight loss in cats and dogs.[5][6] Capromorelin is a ghrelin receptor agonist known to increase appetite and weight gain.[2]
Capromorelin was approved for veterinary use in the United States in May 2016.[9] It is the second drug approved for the management of weight loss in cats and the first drug approved specifically for the management of weight loss in cats with chronic kidney disease.[2]
Research
Capromorelin functions to stimulate the secretion of growth hormone and as a ghrelinmimetic which causes the body to secrete human growth hormone in a way usually seen at puberty and in young adulthood. Studies have shown the drug to directly raise insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and growth hormone levels.[10]
In a one-year treatment trial (starting 1999) with 395 seniors between 65 and 84 years old, patients who received the drug gained an average of 3 lb (1.4 kg) in lean body mass in the first six months and also were better able to walk in a straight line in a test of balance, strength and coordination. After 12 months, patients receiving capromorelin also had an improved ability to climb stairs; however, the results were not good enough to continue the trial for the second planned year.[11]
As of 2017, capromorelin studies in humans had been discontinued.[12]
Veterinary uses
Capromorelin is indicated for the management of weight loss in cats and dogs.[2]