Fluoxetine
Brands: Prozac, Reconcile
Fluoxetine is an SSRI used to treat behavioral issues in pets. Consult a vet.
Used for
- Separation anxiety
- Aggression
- Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
How it is given
- Administration
- oral
- Frequency
- once daily
- Duration
- varies by condition; consult vet
- Storage
- Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 0.5-1 mg/kg
dog
- Large dogs
- 0.5-1 mg/kg
- Small dogs
- 0.5-1 mg/kg
- Medium dogs
- 0.5-1 mg/kg
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Fluoxetine Hydrochloride
Side effects
Common
- Reduced appetite
- Lethargy
Rare
- Vomiting
Severe
- Seizures
Do not use when
- Hypersensitivity to Fluoxetine
- Concurrent use with MAOIs
Interacts with
- MAOIs
- Tricyclic antidepressants
Warnings
- Monitor for serotonin syndrome
- Gradual withdrawal recommended
Fluoxetine questions
Can Fluoxetine be used long-term?
Long-term use should be monitored by a veterinarian.
Is Fluoxetine safe for pregnant pets?
Use with caution; consult a vet.
Can Fluoxetine cause behavioral changes?
It may improve behavior by reducing anxiety.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Give the missed dose as soon as possible unless it's close to the next dose.
How will I know if it's working?
Improvements may be seen in a few weeks; consult your vet for assessment.
Full drug detail
Overview
Fluoxetine, commonly known by brand names such as Prozac and Reconcile, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to manage behavioral issues in pets, primarily dogs and cats. It is essential to consult a veterinarian before administering this medication.
How It Works
Fluoxetine works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation. By doing so, it can help alleviate anxiety and other behavioral issues in pets.
Uses & Indications
Fluoxetine is prescribed for various conditions in pets, including:
- Separation anxiety
- Aggression
- Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
Dosage Guidelines
The dosage of Fluoxetine varies based on the animal's size and condition. It is crucial to follow a veterinarian's prescription.
Dogs
- Small Dogs: 0.5-1 mg/kg
- Medium Dogs: 0.5-1 mg/kg
- Large Dogs: 0.5-1 mg/kg
Cats
- Standard: 0.5-1 mg/kg
Administration
Fluoxetine is administered orally, typically in the form of tablets or capsules.
Frequency
Once daily
Duration
The duration of treatment varies based on the condition being treated and should be determined by a veterinarian.
Side Effects
Common
- Reduced appetite
- Lethargy
Rare
- Vomiting
Severe
- Seizures (requires immediate veterinary attention)
Precautions & Warnings
Fluoxetine should not be used in pets with a known hypersensitivity to the drug. It should be used with caution in pets with liver disease.
Drug Interactions
Fluoxetine may interact with other medications such as:
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Tricyclic antidepressants
Storage
Store Fluoxetine at room temperature, away from moisture and light.
FAQ
- Can Fluoxetine be used long-term? Long-term use should be monitored by a veterinarian.
- Is Fluoxetine safe for pregnant pets? Use with caution; consult a vet.
- Can Fluoxetine cause behavioral changes? It may improve behavior by reducing anxiety.
- What should I do if I miss a dose? Give the missed dose as soon as possible unless it's close to the next dose.
- How will I know if it's working? Improvements may be seen in a few weeks; consult your vet for assessment.
Contraindications
- Pets with hypersensitivity to Fluoxetine
- Concurrent use with MAOIs
Warnings
- Monitor for signs of serotonin syndrome
- Gradual withdrawal is recommended
Storage
Store in a secure place, out of reach of children and pets.
Is Prescription Required
True
Is Controlled
False
Pregnancy Safety
Caution