Gastrex® for Dogs by Standard Process: Digestive Support, Repair, and Detox
As a holistic veterinarian, I spend a lot of time talking with dog parents about digestion. A healthy gut affects everything, from nutrient absorption to immune strength and energy levels. One whole-food supplement I often use to support the upper gastrointestinal tract is Gastrex® by Standard Process.
Gastrex is designed to support digestion, soothe irritated tissues, and help the body clear waste from the stomach and upper GI tract. When used appropriately, it can make a noticeable difference in comfort, stool quality, and overall digestive balance.
What Is Gastrex® by Standard Process?
Gastrex is a whole-food–based supplement formulated to support the stomach and upper gastrointestinal tract. It has been produced by Standard Process, a company known for whole-food nutrition since 1929, and Gastrex itself has been in use since the 1960s.
The formula combines plant ingredients, glandular tissues, and key nutrients that work together to support digestion, tissue repair, and gentle cleansing of the GI tract.
From the manufacturer, Gastrex is designed to:
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Support digestion and cleansing of the upper GI tract
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Support the body’s normal tissue repair process
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Help eliminate waste materials from the GI system
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Provide an excellent source of niacin
Key Benefits of Gastrex® for Dogs
Supports a Healthy Digestive Environment
Gastrex helps support the stomach lining and normal digestive function. Ingredients like okra, porcine stomach, and porcine duodenum provide gentle support to the tissues involved in digestion. This can help dogs break down food more effectively and absorb nutrients more efficiently.
Supports GI Cleansing and Detoxification
The formula supports the body’s natural ability to eliminate waste materials from the upper gastrointestinal tract. Ingredients such as Spanish moss and disodium phosphate help support this cleansing process, which can be especially helpful when the stomach is irritated or sluggish.
Supports Immune Health
The gut plays a major role in immune function. Gastrex provides vitamin C, niacin, and vitamin B6, nutrients that help support immune response and tissue health. A healthier gut environment often supports better resilience overall.
Supports Liver Function
The liver is closely connected to digestion and detoxification. Ingredients like bovine liver and choline bitartrate provide nutrients that support normal liver function and metabolic processes.
Gentle Support for Sensitive Stomachs
Gastrex is often well tolerated by dogs with sensitive stomachs. The ingredients are chosen to soothe, not stimulate aggressively, which makes this supplement a good option for dogs with chronic digestive sensitivity.
Ingredients in Gastrex® and Why They Matter
Gastrex uses a proprietary whole-food blend. Below is a simple explanation of how the key ingredients support digestive health.
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Okra (fruit): High in soluble fiber, which helps soothe and protect the stomach lining and support healthy digestion
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Calcium lactate: A bioavailable form of calcium that supports tissue health and normal pH balance
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Spanish moss (Tillandsia usneoides): Traditionally used to support digestion and help calm inflammation in the gut
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Anise (seed): Helps support digestion and reduce gas and stomach discomfort
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Bovine liver: A nutrient-dense source of vitamins and minerals that supports metabolism and overall vitality
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Defatted wheat germ: Provides vitamins, minerals, and protein that support tissue repair
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Porcine stomach and porcine duodenum: Glandular ingredients that support normal digestive tissue function
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Choline bitartrate: Supports liver health and fat metabolism
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Alginic acid: Derived from seaweed, helps soothe the stomach and support digestive comfort
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Disodium phosphate: Supports pH balance and digestive function
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Oat straw extract: Traditionally used to support overall system balance
Contains wheat.
When Gastrex® May Be Helpful for Dogs
Digestive issues are common, and they are not always simple. Gastrex is often used as part of a broader plan for dogs experiencing:
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Vomiting
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Diarrhea
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Constipation
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Gas or bloating
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Food sensitivities
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Inflammatory bowel disease
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Gastritis or gastroenteritis
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Colitis
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Suspected stomach irritation or ulcers
How Gastrex® Works in the Body
Gastrex supports digestion through several complementary actions.
Supports Stomach Function
Ingredients like okra support mucosal tissue, which helps protect and soothe the stomach lining.
Supports Normal Liver Detox Pathways
Nutrients such as choline and glandular ingredients support normal liver function, which plays a key role in digestion and waste removal.
Supports a Healthy Gut Environment
Fiber and mineral balance help support beneficial gut bacteria and healthy digestion.
Dosage and Administration for Dogs
Recommended Dosage
| Dog Size | Daily Amount |
|---|---|
| Small dogs 1 to 20 lb | 1 capsule daily |
| Medium dogs 21 to 50 lb | 2 capsules daily |
| Large dogs 51 lb and up | 3 capsules daily |
Manufacturer suggested use for adults is two capsules with water 15 minutes before meals and bedtime. For dogs, dosing is adjusted by size as shown above.
How to Give Gastrex
For acute stomach upset, I typically suggest giving Gastrex about 15 minutes before meals.
For chronic digestive issues, it can be given before or with food.
Capsules can be given whole or opened and mixed into food. If hiding the capsule, use a small amount of easily digestible food. I usually recommend avoiding cheese since it can be difficult for many dogs to digest.
Always provide access to fresh, clean water.
Possible Side Effects
Gastrex is generally well tolerated. Some dogs may experience mild digestive changes, such as loose stool, when first starting the supplement. This is usually temporary.
If signs persist for more than five days or worsen, discontinue use and contact your veterinarian or reach out through our contact form.
If your dog has known food sensitivities, review the ingredient list carefully. Gastrex contains wheat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gastrex® for dogs used for?
Gastrex is used to support digestion, soothe the stomach lining, and help the body clear waste from the upper gastrointestinal tract.
How does Gastrex® support digestion?
It supports stomach tissue health, normal digestive function, and gentle GI cleansing using whole-food ingredients and key nutrients.
When should I give Gastrex® to my dog?
For stomach upset, give it about 15 minutes before meals. For ongoing support, it can be given before or with food.
Are side effects common with Gastrex®?
Side effects are uncommon. Mild digestive changes may occur when starting but usually resolve as the body adjusts.
Where can I buy Gastrex® for dogs?
Gastrex® for Dogs by Standard Process is available through our secure online store.
Gastrex®, 90 Capsules
Description
- Supports the body’s normal tissue repair process*
- Supports GI cleansing through the elimination of waste materials*
- Excellent source of niacin
Suggested Use:
Two capsules with a full glass of water 15 minutes before meals and bedtime, or as directed.
Warnings: If pregnant or nursing or have any health condition, consult your health care professional before using this product. Keep out of reach of children.
Nutrients & Ingredients
Nutrients & Ingredients – Each Serving Size (2 Capsules) contains: Vitamin C 3 mg, Niacin 6.4 mg, Vitamin B6 0.1 mg, Sodium 10 mg. Proprietary Blend 580 mg: Okra (fruit), calcium lactate, Spanish moss (Tillandsia usneoides), anise (seed), bovine liver, defatted wheat germ, porcine stomach, choline bitartrate, alginic acid, porcine duodenum, disodium phosphate, and oat (straw) extract. Other Ingredients: Gelatin, water, niacinamide, calcium stearate, ascorbic acid, and pyridoxine hydrochloride. Contains: Wheat.
Please consult the actual product label for the most accurate product information.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
