Mirtazapine vs Entyce / Elura: what's the difference?
How Mirtazapine and Entyce / Elura compare: what each is for, how it works, side effects and cost, side by side.
Last updated: October 2026 · 2 sources · see sources
Side by side
| Mirtazapine | Entyce / Elura | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Mirtazapine | Capromorelin |
| Brand names | Mirataz, Remeron | Entyce, Elura |
| For | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats |
| Prescription | Prescription | Prescription |
| Used for | Stimulates appetite and manages weight loss, mainly in cats. It also reduces nausea. [1] | Stimulates appetite in dogs (Entyce) and manages weight loss in cats with kidney disease (Elura). [2] |
| How it works | It acts on serotonin and histamine receptors to boost appetite. Mirataz is an ointment rubbed on the inside of a cat's ear. [1] | It mimics ghrelin, the body's hunger hormone. [2] |
| Common side effects | Vocalizing, agitation, vomiting, wobbliness and restlessness, which can mean the dose is too high. [1] | Diarrhea, vomiting, drooling, more thirst and urination. [2] |
| Use with care | Not with MAOIs. Use caution in pets with liver or kidney disease. [1] | Use caution with kidney or liver disease. Avoid in cats with acromegaly. [2] |
| Full guide | Mirtazapine (Mirataz) guide | Entyce / Elura (Capromorelin) guide |
Key differences
On the basics they are alike: same kind of animal, same way to get them. The differences are in how they work and what else they cover, shown in the table above.
Which one is right for my pet?
That is a call for your vet. They weigh your pet's age, weight, other health problems, other medicines and what you can realistically give at home.
Switching from Mirtazapine to Entyce / Elura is common, but do it only with your vet's plan.
Common questions
What is the difference between Mirtazapine and Entyce / Elura?
Both boost appetite. Mirtazapine (Mirataz) is often an ear ointment for cats; capromorelin mimics the hunger hormone ghrelin.
Is Mirtazapine better than Entyce / Elura?
Neither is better for every pet. Your vet chooses based on your pet's species, age, health history, other medicines and what you can manage at home.
Can my pet take Mirtazapine and Entyce / Elura together?
Only if your vet says so. Some medicines in the same family should not be combined, and others are often used together. Always check before adding or switching.
Do Mirtazapine and Entyce / Elura need a prescription?
Mirtazapine: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian. Entyce / Elura: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian.
Related
This page is general information for planning, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about your own pet.