Ertugliflozin (as L-Pyroglutamic Acid) Oral Suspension (Anhydrous)
Ertugliflozin (as L-Pyroglutamic Acid) is a compounded formulation containing ertugliflozin (as L-pyroglutamic acid), prepared by Mixlab for veterinary use. Available by prescription.
Ertugliflozin
How to Give Anhydrous Oral Suspension
Oral Suspension (Anhydrous) is a liquid medication that does not contain water in its base. This might be an oil-based or other special base to help stabilize the medicine. It will look like a regular liquid medication, but often needs a good shake because the drug can settle. Here's how to give it:
- Shake well each time to mix the medication (5-10 seconds).
- Measure the dose using the syringe/dropper provided or one recommended by your vet. Insert the top of the oral syringe into the bottle adapter. Turn the bottle upside down and pull the plunger until the medicine reaches the volume required
- Hold your pet steady: a towel or helper can assist with squirmy pets.
- Administer the dose slowly into the side of the mouth. Allow small pauses if needed for swallowing.
- Raise the head slightly to help the medication go down and clean any spills with a little water or tissue.
- Praise your pet and offer a treat or water (unless advised against feeding right after).
- Clean the syringe with water immediately after use. Store the bottle as directed, out of sunlight.
- Consistency is key: Shake each time, measure accurately, and contact your vet if any issues arise.
The uses and pharmacology described below reflect the FDA-approved labeling for this active ingredient; your veterinarian determines whether and how they apply to your animal's treatment plan.
Veterinarians most commonly consider ertugliflozin in the context of feline patients requiring a management approach for elevated blood glucose levels. It is often a point of discussion for cats where traditional injectable therapies may be challenging to administer or where clinical objectives involve reducing the workload on the pancreas. By utilizing the renal system to influence systemic glucose levels, your veterinarian can manage the metabolic profile of the patient through an oral route.
At a pharmacological level, ertugliflozin acts by inhibiting the SGLT2 protein located in the proximal convoluted tubules of the kidneys. This specific transporter is responsible for the majority of glucose reabsorption from the glomerular filtrate back into the bloodstream. By blocking this pathway, ertugliflozin facilitates the excretion of glucose via the urine—a process known as glucosuria. This mechanism manages blood glucose levels independently of insulin secretion or action. Your veterinarian will determine if ertugliflozin is the appropriate choice based on your cat’s diagnostic history, renal status and current nutritional requirements.
Prescription only. Use only under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. This information is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, prescribing or monitoring. Compounded drugs are not approved by the FDA for safety or effectiveness.
Commonly observed effects of ertugliflozin administration include increased thirst (polydipsia) and increased urination (polyuria), which are expected physiological responses to the presence of glucose in the urine. Some owners may also observe weight loss or localized skin irritation near the perineal area. A critical clinical consideration is the potential for euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis, a state where the patient develops metabolic ketones despite having relatively normal blood glucose readings. Your veterinarian will recommend regular patient monitoring of ketone levels and hydration status during the course of administration.
This medication is typically used with caution or avoided in cats with advanced kidney disease or those experiencing acute illness, as adequate renal function is necessary for its mechanism. It is also carefully evaluated in patients with a history of recurrent urinary tract infections, as the increased glucose in the urine may influence the local environment. Before starting a protocol involving ertugliflozin, ensure your veterinarian has a complete history of all other prescriptions and supplements your cat is receiving. Contact your veterinarian promptly if you observe significant lethargy, vomiting, decreased appetite or any unusual behavior during the transition to this medication.
Yes. Ertugliflozin is a prescription medication and can only be dispensed by a licensed pharmacy like Mixlab upon receipt of a valid authorization from a licensed veterinarian. Mixlab verifies all prescriptions before any medication is prepared or shipped.
Yes. While certain SGLT2 inhibitors may be available in commercial formats, Mixlab can compound ertugliflozin into specialized strengths or flavored dosage forms—such as oral liquids or treats—if your veterinarian determines a customized preparation is necessary for your cat. The decision between a commercial and compounded product rests with the prescribing veterinarian.
Veterinarians currently discuss ertugliflozin primarily for feline patients because the underlying mechanisms of glucose metabolism in cats are particularly suited to SGLT2 inhibition. While research in other species continues to emerge, its current veterinary context is focused on feline endocrine management.
Owners should monitor for changes in thirst and urination, as well as general appetite and energy levels. It is also important to observe for any signs of lethargy or vomiting, as your veterinarian will need to monitor for metabolic shifts like ketosis even if blood sugar levels appear stable.
