Endosorb for Dogs

Unfortunately, nearly every pet will experience diarrhea at some point in their lives. If your dog has diarrhea, your veterinarian may recommend a product called Endosorb to help. Endosorb is an absorbent, anti-diarrheal, and demulcent medication designed to soothe the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and stabilize stool consistency. It can help improve your dog’s diarrhea and its associated symptoms.

What is Endosorb?

Endosorb is activated attapulgite, also known as palygorskite. This mineral is a magnesium aluminum phyllosilicate, which occurs in a type of clay soil common to the southeastern United States. Activated attapulgite is used as an anti-diarrheal medication in both humans and animals. Endosorb is available over the counter and does not require a prescription from your veterinarian to purchase. 

What Does Endosorb for Dogs Look Like?

Endosorb is a round, brown-and-white speckled tablet that is scored down the center.

How Does Endosorb Work?

Endosorb absorbs fluid in the intestinal tract to stabilize stool consistency and soothe the gastrointestinal tract. Endosorb may also help by absorbing toxins and toxic material present in the gut of animals experiencing diarrhea and associated symptoms. Endosorb also contains citrus pectin, which coats the GI tract, and carob pulp and magnesium trisilicate, which act as antacids to soothe the stomach.

What is Endosorb Used for in Dogs?

Endosorb is used as an anti-diarrheal medication in dogs. It can help manage uncomplicated diarrhea, improve stool consistency, and relieve discomfort associated with diarrhea in dogs. 

How to Give Endosorb to Dogs

Endosorb is a tablet that is given to your dog by mouth. If necessary, you can hide the tablet in a treat to get your dog to take it. To do this, start by giving your dog a treat without the tablet, then give a treat with the tablet inside and immediately follow it up with another treat without the tablet. With any luck, your dog will be so focused on taking the treats that he won’t even notice that one of them had a pill inside of it.

If your dog won’t take the treat with the tablet inside of it, then you may need to “pill” your dog by giving the tablet directly. To do this, gently open your dog’s mouth and place the tablet as far back on your dog’s tongue as you can safely reach. Close your dog’s mouth and gently hold it closed until your dog swallows. You can encourage him to swallow by stroking his throat or gently blowing on his nose. Once he swallows, reward him with a treat. (For a step-by-step guide, check out our article on How to Give a Dog a Pill.)

Endosorb Dog Side Effects

There are no commonly reported side effects associated with Endosorb. However, if your dog’s diarrhea does not resolve within 24-48 hours, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, fever, pain, or other changes in health or behavior, you should see your veterinarian for further care.

Reactions With Other Drugs and Medications

Because Endosorb is highly absorbent, it should be given separately from other drugs and medications to prevent it from binding to them and decreasing their absorption. Give your pet’s other medications at least one hour prior to giving Endosorb to ensure they are adequately absorbed.

Endosorb Dosage for Dogs

Although Endosorb is available over the counter, you should always talk to your veterinarian first before starting any medication for dog diarrhea. This is especially important if your dog exhibits other symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, or other changes in health and behavior. These can be signs of a more serious medical problem requiring veterinary intervention.

If your veterinarian gives the go-ahead to use Endosorb for your dog’s diarrhea, follow the instructions on the product label for dosing based on your pet’s weight. Follow the dosing schedule until your dog’s diarrhea resolves or until your veterinarian tells you it is okay to discontinue use of the product.

What If My Dog Misses a Dose of Endosorb

If your dog misses a dose of Endosorb, give the medication as soon as you remember. If the next dose is due soon, do not give two doses or double the dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and continue on with the next dose as prescribed. If your dog misses multiple doses of Endosorb, contact your veterinarian for advice on how best to proceed.

Cost of Endosorb for Dogs

Endosorb is available over the counter at a cost of approximately $110 for a 500-count bottle. The cost may vary depending on your geographic location.

Endosorb Storage Instructions

Store Endosorb in a cool, dry place.