Inhibits 11-beta-hydroxylase, the enzyme catalyzing the final step of cortisol synthesis (11-deoxycortisol → cortisol). Used diagnostically to test pituitary ACTH reserve and therapeutically to reduce cortisol in Cushing's syndrome.
At a glance
Class
Adrenal Steroidogenesis Inhibitor (Diagnostic/Therapeutic)
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light and moisture
Dosing
Rarely used therapeutically — trilostane and mitotane preferred for Cushing's
Frequency
q12h (therapeutic); once (diagnostic)
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Safety
Cortisol levelsACTH11-deoxycortisolElectrolytesBlood pressure
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Metyrapone?
Metyrapone is a adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitor (diagnostic/therapeutic) used in pets. Inhibits 11-beta-hydroxylase, the enzyme catalyzing the final step of cortisol synthesis (11-deoxycortisol → cortisol). Used diagnostically to test pituitary ACTH reserve and therapeutically to reduce cortisol in Cushing's syndrome.
›What is Metyrapone used for in pets?
Metyrapone is used in veterinary medicine for: Rarely used therapeutically — trilostane and mitotane preferred for Cushing's; Very limited feline data.
›What is the Metyrapone dose for dogs?
For dogs, Metyrapone is typically dosed as follows — Rarely used therapeutically — trilostane and mitotane preferred for Cushing's: undefined undefined PO q12h (therapeutic); once (diagnostic). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Metyrapone dose for cats?
For cats, Metyrapone is typically dosed as follows — Very limited feline data: undefined undefined PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Metyrapone need a prescription?
Yes. Metyrapone is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database