peptideNot FDA-approvedPrescription only (US)FDA-approved only as a veterinary prescription drug (Entyce for dogs, Elura for cats), not approved for human use
CapromorelinBenefits, Dosage & Interactions
Capromorelin is an orally active ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) agonist that mimics ghrelin to stimulate appetite and trigger growth hormone release. It is FDA-approved in veterinary medicine as Entyce for appetite stimulation in dogs and Elura for weight management in cats with chronic kidney disease.
Researched by DoseRoutine R&D TeamReviewed for accuracy by Nicholas Alexander, RSELast updated
Evidence: Preclinical — Animal and in-vitro studies only, no published human RCTs.
Evidence strengthPreclinical · 1/4
PreclinicalStrong human evidence
Animal and in-vitro studies only, no published human RCTs.
Quick answer
Capromorelin is an orally active ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) agonist that mimics ghrelin to stimulate appetite and trigger growth hormone release. It is FDA-approved in veterinary medicine as Entyce for appetite stimulation in dogs and Elura for weight management in cats with chronic kidney disease. In humans it reached clinical trials for age-related functional decline, where it raised IGF-1 and lean mass, but development was discontinued and it has no human approval.
- Class
- Ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) agonist / growth hormone secretagogue
- Brand names
- Entyce (dogs), Elura (cats) — veterinary
- Route
- Oral solution
- Approved use
- Appetite stimulation in dogs; weight management in CKD cats
- Human status
- Trialled for age-related decline; development discontinued
- Typical effects
- Increased food intake, GH and IGF-1 release
Compiled by DoseRoutine from public sources including NIH/MedlinePlus, the FDA label, Mayo Clinic and PubChem. Educational information, not medical advice.
Plasma half-life
Not established in humans; reported as a few hours in dogs in veterinary pharmacokinetic work
Default unit
mg
What published protocols report
Ranges documented in the literature, shown for reference. DoseRoutine does not recommend an amount — your prescriber or the product label sets the dose.
- Reported amounts
- Veterinary labeling and trials used approximately 3 mg/kg oral capromorelin in dogs and 2-3 mg/kg in cats; no human dose has been established[1][2][3]
Reported for Capromorelin in the cited sources. Published ranges are not dosing advice.
References & evidence
Documents the Capromorelin entry is written from. Each number matches an inline marker above.
- [1]Capromorelin promotes weight gain in cats with unintended weight loss: a randomized, masked, placebo-controlled clinical trialWofford JA, Milliken MacKinnon A, Heinen E · Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery · 2025 · Peer-reviewed · PMID 41204815
- [2]The effect of capromorelin on glycemic control in healthy dogsPascutti KM, O'Kell AL, Hill RC, et al. · Domestic Animal Endocrinology · 2022 · Peer-reviewed · PMID 35689953
- [3]Evaluating the Safety and Efficacy of Capromorelin in Rhesus Macaques (Macaca mulatta)Campellone GA, Easley KA, Jenkins JB, Jean SM · Journal of the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science · 2024 · Peer-reviewed · PMID 38423529
How to track Capromorelin doses
Capromorelin is tracked as a protocol rather than a single reminder: a vial with a concentration, a schedule that may be titrated or cycled, and a rotation of injection sites. Here is the record that keeps all three consistent.
- 1
Record the vial and concentration
Log the vial strength and the volume of bacteriostatic water you added so Capromorelin is stored as a concentration rather than a guess. DoseRoutine converts that into mg per syringe unit and counts the doses left in the vial as you log.
- 2
Set the schedule, not just a reminder
Enter the dose in mg and the frequency. Cycled protocols get a start and end date so the history stays accurate when Capromorelin comes out of the routine.
- 3
Rotate and log the injection site
Pick the site at the moment you log the dose. The site map shows what you used last and how recently, which is the part that drifts fastest when two compounds run on different frequencies.
- 4
Log adherence, not intentions
Mark each dose taken, skipped or delayed as it happens. Weeks of honest logs are what make an adherence rate or a trend line meaningful; retrospective guessing is not.
- 5
Review against outcomes
Review Capromorelin alongside your logged metrics and any relevant blood work every few weeks before changing the dose, so the change is a response to data rather than to a good or bad day.
What to log each time
- Dose in mg and the syringe units it worked out to
- Vial: reconstitution date, concentration, doses remaining
- Injection site and time
- Any side effects in the 24 h after the dose
References & Evidence
Sources on this page that document Capromorelin dosing, timing and safety.
- [1]National Center for Biotechnology Information View source
Educational information only — not medical advice. Dose ranges vary by person, indication and prescriber.
What is Capromorelin studied for?
What is Capromorelin?Sources for this section: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
Capromorelin is a synthetic, orally active ghrelin mimetic. It is not a peptide in the traditional sense, but a small molecule that mimics the actions of ghrelin, a naturally occurring hormone that stimulates growth hormone release and appetite. In veterinary medicine, it is approved for use in dogs to stimulate appetite and increase body weight, specifically lean body mass. As a growth hormone secretagogue, it acts by binding to and activating the ghrelin/growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a) in the brain. This activation leads to a cascade of events that ultimately result in increased secretion of growth hormone from the pituitary gland. The primary application of Capromorelin in canine medicine is for the management of unintentional weight loss and poor appetite associated with chronic diseases. Its mechanism of action offers a unique approach compared to traditional appetite stimulants by also promoting lean body mass gain. (FDA label, DrugBank)
What does the research say about Capromorelin?
Tap a section to expand.
Capromorelin functions as a selective agonist at the growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a (GHS-R1a), which is also known as the ghrelin receptor. The GHS-R1a is primarily located in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland in the brain, though it is also found in other peripheral tissues. When Capromorelin binds to this receptor, it mimics the action of the endogenous hormone ghrelin. This activation leads to a G-protein coupled receptor signaling cascade. Specifically, GHS-R1a activation results in the release of intracellular calcium, which is a key step in initiating the secretion of growth hormone (GH) from somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary gland. By promoting GH release, Capromorelin indirectly influences several metabolic processes. Growth hormone itself has anabolic effects, promoting protein synthesis and a positive nitrogen balance, leading to increased lean body mass. Furthermore, the activation of GHS-R1a also directly stimulates appetite. Ghrelin, and by extension Capromorelin, is known as the "hunger hormone" due to its role in regulating food intake. It signals to the brain that the body needs energy, leading to an increase in hunger and food-seeking behaviors. The combined effect of increased GH secretion and direct appetite stimulation contributes to its efficacy in promoting weight gain, particularly lean muscle mass, in conditions associated with cachexia or poor appetite. (DrugBank, PubChem)
Source for this section: Sources for How does Capromorelin work?: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
In its primary approved use in veterinary medicine, Capromorelin offers several key benefits:
* **Appetite Stimulation:** It significantly increases appetite in dogs, which is crucial for managing conditions involving unintentional weight loss or poor caloric intake. Studies have shown a measurable improvement in appetite scores in treated animals. (FDA label)
* **Increased Lean Body Mass:** Beyond just stimulating appetite, Capromorelin's activation of GHS-R1a leads to increased growth hormone release, which promotes protein synthesis and the accumulation of lean muscle mass. This is particularly beneficial in preventing or reversing muscle wasting. (FDA label)
* **Weight Gain:** The combination of increased appetite and enhanced lean body mass contributes to overall healthy weight gain, which can improve quality of life and outcomes in cachectic or underweight animals. (FDA label)
* **Oral Administration:** Its oral bioavailability makes it a convenient option for long-term administration, avoiding the need for injections. (FDA label)
Clinical trials supporting the approval of Capromorelin for appetite stimulation and weight gain in dogs consistently demonstrated its efficacy. For instance, a randomized, masked, placebo-controlled field study evaluated Capromorelin in client-owned dogs with a history of unintentional weight loss. The primary efficacy endpoint was a positive response to appetite, defined as a daily owner assessment score indicating 'good' or 'excellent' appetite. The study found a statistically significant improvement in appetite in the Capromorelin-treated group compared to the placebo group. Additionally, several studies have focused on its ability to increase lean body mass. Research utilizing dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans has confirmed that Capromorelin treatment leads to increases in lean tissue mass, rather than just fat mass, in various animal models. Its effects on growth hormone secretion have been well-documented through pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies, demonstrating a clear dose-dependent increase in circulating growth hormone levels following administration. The consistent findings across multiple studies in veterinary medicine underscore its established role as an effective ghrelin mimetic in this context. (FDA label)
While generally well-tolerated in its approved use, some side effects associated with Capromorelin have been reported. These primarily include gastrointestinal disturbances such as vomiting, diarrhea, and increased salivation. In some cases, owners have reported lethargy or polydipsia (increased thirst). Rarer side effects like hematomas or discomfort at the injection site (when applicable, although approved formulation is oral) have been noted in research settings. It is important to monitor animals for any adverse reactions, especially during the initial stages of treatment. Most reported side effects are mild and transient. This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Capromorelin should be used with caution in animals with certain pre-existing conditions. Due to its potential to affect glucose metabolism through growth hormone release, it should be used carefully in animals with diabetes mellitus. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is recommended during treatment in diabetic patients. The product label also advises against its use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating animals, as its effects on reproduction and development have not been fully evaluated. Animals with severe cardiac or renal disease should also be treated with caution, as systemic changes facilitated by growth hormone modulation could potentially exacerbate these conditions. In cases of overdose, immediate veterinary attention is crucial, and supportive care should be provided. This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Capromorelin is contraindicated in animals with hypersensitivity to the active substance or excipients. Its use is also not recommended in animals with primary polydipsia or polyuria where an increase in fluid intake could be detrimental. The safety and efficacy for use in puppies less than 6 months of age have not been established. This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Currently, there are no definitively identified drug interactions for Capromorelin that are explicitly listed as 'do not mix' on its product label. However, as with any pharmaceutical, caution should be exercised when co-administering Capromorelin with other medications, especially those that also affect appetite, metabolism, or hormonal balance. For instance, drugs that alter growth hormone secretion, such as glucocorticoids or thyroid hormones, could theoretically modify the effects of Capromorelin. Similarly, concurrent use of other appetite stimulants might lead to additive effects, requiring careful monitoring. It's always prudent to inform your veterinary clinician about all other medications or supplements an animal is receiving to avoid potential interactions. This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Capromorelin is typically administered once daily, usually orally. It can be given with or without food. Peak plasma concentrations are generally reached within 1-2 hours after oral administration in dogs. Due to its relatively short half-life, a once-daily dosing regimen maintains consistent therapeutic levels over time.
Source for this section: Sources for When should you take Capromorelin?: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
What interacts with Capromorelin?
| Interacts with | Severity | Type | What happens | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Any peptide + hormone | Note | Category ruleConfidence: theoretical | Injectable peptides plus hormones can have overlapping or compounding effects that aren't always well characterized.Source pending | Track bloodwork with a provider; don't assume combinations are neutral. |
Frequently asked questions about Capromorelin
Capromorelin is a research peptide. What follows is drawn from peer-reviewed literature indexed on PubMed, FDA label text where a label exists, and NIH reference records.
Capromorelin is commonly discussed in the context of supporting muscle. Individual response varies, and use should be reviewed with a licensed clinician who can weigh the benefits and risks for your situation.
For Capromorelin, it is typically taken null. Always follow the specific dose your clinician or the product label prescribes.
Capromorelin carries potential side effects and drug interactions, documented in NIH, Mayo Clinic, and FDA label sources. Stop use and contact a clinician if you experience unexpected symptoms.
Capromorelin is a peptide, and interactions are possible with prescriptions, hormones, peptides and other supplements in the same routine. Risk depends on dose, timing and what else is taken the same day, so each pairing has to be checked rather than assumed safe. The free checker at https://doseroutine.com/interaction-checker covers Capromorelin with no sign-up.
Combining a peptide like Capromorelin with TRT is usually a question of labs rather than a blanket yes or no: the ester, injection interval and any aromatase inhibitor all change the answer. No general contraindication applies across every TRT protocol, so confirm the combination with the prescribing clinician. See the free TRT interaction reference: https://doseroutine.com/trt-supplement-interactions
Each peptide class carries its own profile against Capromorelin: a healing peptide raises different questions than a GLP-1 agonist or a growth-hormone secretagogue. Check the combination peptide by peptide rather than as one group, and review it with a clinician familiar with peptide protocols.
Published frequency for Capromorelin varies by protocol and formulation, so the label or prescription is what sets it. Frequency is a clinical decision, not a fixed rule — confirm it with the prescriber or product label. Comparison of apps that keep a schedule like this: https://doseroutine.com/best-dose-tracking-apps
The effect of a missed dose of Capromorelin depends on the protocol and formulation you are on. Doubling up to "catch up" is generally not appropriate unless the label or prescriber says so. Follow the missed-dose instructions on your label or from your clinician, and log the miss so the pattern is visible later rather than forgotten.
For Capromorelin the useful record is the dose, the time it was actually taken, and what else was taken in the same window. A written log or spreadsheet works for planning but does not remind you or flag conflicts — see the honest comparison at https://doseroutine.com/vs/spreadsheet and the wider roundup at https://doseroutine.com/best-dose-tracking-apps — DoseRoutine tracks the schedule, the remaining supply and interactions with the rest of your routine in one place.
No. Capromorelin's only approvals are veterinary. It was studied in human trials for sarcopenia and age-related functional decline, where it increased IGF-1 and lean body mass over twelve months, but the program did not continue to approval, so there is no human label, indication or dosing guidance. This is educational information, not medical advice.
Capromorelin binds the growth hormone secretagogue receptor GHS-R1a in the hypothalamus and pituitary — the same receptor the hunger hormone ghrelin uses — which drives appetite signaling and a pulse of growth hormone, followed by a rise in IGF-1. That dual effect is why it is used to restore food intake in animals that will not eat. This is educational information, not medical advice.
In veterinary labeling the most common effects are vomiting, hypersalivation and diarrhea, with transient increases in blood glucose reported. Growth hormone secretagogues as a class can also cause fluid retention, joint discomfort and reduced insulin sensitivity, which is part of why human development of several of them stalled. This is educational information, not medical advice.
Which studies looked at Capromorelin?
Peer-reviewed research indexed in PubMed. Each entry links to the original record.
- 1.Pharmacokinetics of the ghrelin agonist capromorelin in a single ascending dose Phase-I safety trial in spinal cord-injured and able-bodied volunteers(opens PubMed in a new tab)Spinal Cord · 2015 · PMID 25448190 · https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25448190/
Sources cited on this page
Specific documents referenced by the numbered markers above. Each number matches the marker in the text.
- PubChem CID 216208(opens in a new tab)National Center for Biotechnology Information · pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/216208
Verify at
Publisher search links for Capromorelin. These are places to check the information — they are not citations, so they are not numbered.
- FDA-approved labeling (DailyMed)(publisher search, opens in a new tab)U.S. Food and Drug Administration · publisher search
- DrugBank(publisher search, opens in a new tab)DrugBank Online · publisher search
- MedlinePlus(publisher search, opens in a new tab)U.S. National Library of Medicine · publisher search
- PubMed literature search(publisher search, opens in a new tab)National Library of Medicine · publisher search
- Wikipedia entry(publisher search, opens in a new tab)Wikipedia · publisher search
DoseRoutine compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician. How we source and review this information.
What is the short answer on Capromorelin?
Plain-text summary, safe to quote verbatim:
Capromorelin is an orally active ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) agonist that mimics ghrelin to stimulate appetite and trigger growth hormone release. It is FDA-approved in veterinary medicine as Entyce for appetite stimulation in dogs and Elura for weight management in cats with chronic kidney disease.
Source: DoseRoutine — https://doseroutine.com/library/capromorelin
Cite this page
Using this in an article, AI answer, or research note? Please attribute:
DoseRoutine. (2026). Capromorelin — Overview, Benefits & Side Effects. Retrieved from https://doseroutine.com/library/capromorelin
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