Ertugliflozin (as L-Pyroglutamic Acid) Powder
Ertugliflozin (as L-Pyroglutamic Acid) is a compounded formulation containing ertugliflozin (as L-pyroglutamic acid), prepared by Mixlab for veterinary use. Available by prescription.
Powder medications are meant to be mixed into food or treats, not given on their own (since most pets won’t lick up plain powder). The key is to mix it into something tasty so your pet eats the entire dose.
How to Give It:
- Measure the dose using the included scoop or follow the instructions. If you’re unsure how much to give, ask your vet or pharmacist.
- Mix it with a small amount of soft food or treat—like wet food, baby food (meat flavor), peanut butter (xylitol-free), yogurt, or cheese. Use just enough to hide the powder so your pet finishes it all in one go.
- Stir it well to blend the powder in evenly. Add a splash of water if needed to make it smoother.
- Offer it when your pet is a little hungry, and watch to make sure they eat the whole thing.
- If your pet refuses, try something else they love next time. For cats, you can also try smearing the paste on their paw to lick off (only if safe and comfortable).
- For large animals, mix the powder into a small portion of feed with water or molasses, then follow with the rest of their food once they’ve eaten the medicated part.
- Store the powder in a cool, dry place with the lid closed tightly.
Never give powder straight into your pet’s mouth—it can be dangerous if inhaled.
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.
