Fluoxetine is an antidepressant belonging to a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI). Fluoxetine is used in dogs and cats for the treatment of canine aggression and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Fluoxetine requires a prescription from your veterinarian. Tablets are sold individually. When veterinarians prescribe Prozac (fluoxetine as generic) for dogs, it’s the same medication you would receive from your doctor for a similar issue—just in a different dosage. It’s a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), meaning it blocks your body from reabsorbing serotonin. When levels of this neurotransmitter are higher in the brain, it’s thought to improve mood. Does your dog need anti-anxiety medication?
Before prescribing anti-anxiety meds, your vet needs to rule out a medical cause. Dog anxiety can be triggered by internal issues such as irritability caused by allergies or even pain caused by osteoarthritis. Once an underlying condition is ruled out, a veterinary behaviorist will assess your dog’s social and environmental history and anxiety episodes. “It’s not really always about figuring out the ‘why,’ but how to move forward,” Dr. Pike says. A diagnosis—such as fear-based aggression with people and dogs—will be followed by a prognosis. A treatment plan including medications and behavioral modification will also be made.
Description
Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that is prescribed to treat a variety of behavioral problems caused by separation anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders. It works by increasing the effectiveness of serotonin in the brain, which aids in the management of anxiety and depression. Customers may receive this drug under the names Reconcile, Prozac.
Features of Fluoxetine For Dogs
Fluoxetine is used to treat separation anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders and other behavior problems in pets.
- – Treats separation anxiety in pet
- – Helps with obsessive compulsive behaviors like excessive licking in dogs or inappropriate elimination in cats
- – Can help treat aggressive behaviors, too
Uses/benefits of Fluoxetine For Dogs:
- Helps with obsessive compulsive behaviors such as tail chasing in dogs, or constant licking in dogs and cats, and other behavioral disorders which are otherwise common causes for veterinary visits
- Easy to administer
Dosage Of Fluoxetine For Dogs
Dosage of fluoxetine for dogs will vary based on the condition that needs treatment, the size of the dog, and the dog’s response to the drug. It’s important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions closely, as overdose of fluoxetine can cause seizures in dogs.
Typically the drug is given in a dosage of 0.5 to 0.9 mg per pound orally once per day. So, for example, a 30-pound dog would probably get somewhere between 15 and 27 mg per day. Fluoxetine usually comes in 10 mg or 20 mg tablets, and your vet will let you know how to give a precise dose.
Side Effects of Fluoxetine In Dogs
There are some side effects associated with the use of fluoxetine in dogs. Most of these are moderate.
Here are a few common side effects:
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Sore throat
- Insomnia
- Dry mouth
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Panic attacks
- Restlessness
- Panting
- Aggression
Some side effects that can occur are more serious.
If you see the following symptoms, then you should contact your vet right away:
- Seizure
- Muscle twitches
- Stiffness
- Confusion
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Fast heart rate
Prices of Fluoxetine For Dogs
$20.10 – $45.99