Fluoxetine (Prozac)
Brands: Reconcile, Prozac
Fluoxetine is an SSRI used to treat behavioral issues in pets, such as anxiety and aggression.
Used for
- anxiety
- aggression
- obsessive-compulsive behaviors
How it is given
- Administration
- oral
- Frequency
- once daily
- Duration
- several weeks to see effects
- Storage
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight.
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 0.5 to 1 mg/kg once daily
dog
- Large dogs
- 1 to 2 mg/kg once daily
- Small dogs
- 0.5 to 1 mg/kg once daily
- Medium dogs
- 1 to 2 mg/kg once daily
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Fluoxetine Hydrochloride
Side effects
Common
- drowsiness
- decreased appetite
Rare
- vomiting
Severe
- seizures
Do not use when
- hypersensitivity to fluoxetine
- use with MAOIs
Interacts with
- monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- other SSRIs
Warnings
- not for use in hypersensitive pets
- caution in liver disease
Fluoxetine (Prozac) questions
Can fluoxetine be used in all dogs and cats?
It should be used under veterinary guidance, especially in pets with health issues.
How long does fluoxetine take to work?
It may take several weeks to see the full effects.
What should I do if a dose is missed?
Give the dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for the next dose.
Can fluoxetine cause weight changes?
Some pets may experience decreased appetite, leading to weight loss.
Is it safe to use fluoxetine long-term?
Long-term use should be monitored by a veterinarian.
Full drug detail
Overview
Fluoxetine, commonly known by the brand name Prozac, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to manage behavioral disorders in pets. It is particularly effective in treating anxiety and aggression in dogs and cats.
How It Works
Fluoxetine works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which helps improve mood and reduce anxiety. This mechanism makes it effective in managing various behavioral issues in pets.
Uses & Indications
Fluoxetine is primarily used to treat the following conditions in pets:
- Anxiety
- Aggression
- Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
Dosage Guidelines
Dogs
- Small Dogs: 0.5 to 1 mg/kg once daily
- Medium Dogs: 1 to 2 mg/kg once daily
- Large Dogs: 1 to 2 mg/kg once daily
Cats
- Standard: 0.5 to 1 mg/kg once daily
Administration
Fluoxetine is administered orally in the form of tablets or capsules. It is important to follow the veterinarian's dosage instructions and not to discontinue use abruptly.
Side Effects
Common
- Drowsiness
- Decreased appetite
Rare
- Vomiting
Severe
- Seizures (requires immediate veterinary attention)
Precautions & Warnings
- Do not use in pets with a known hypersensitivity to fluoxetine.
- Use with caution in pets with liver disease or diabetes.
Drug Interactions
Fluoxetine can interact with other medications, including:
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Other SSRIs
Storage
Store fluoxetine in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children and pets.
FAQ
- Can fluoxetine be used in all dogs and cats? It should be used under veterinary guidance, especially in pets with health issues.
- How long does fluoxetine take to work? It may take several weeks to see the full effects.
- What should I do if a dose is missed? Give the dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for the next dose.
- Can fluoxetine cause weight changes? Some pets may experience decreased appetite, leading to weight loss.
- Is it safe to use fluoxetine long-term? Long-term use should be monitored by a veterinarian.
Always consult a veterinarian before starting fluoxetine treatment for your pet.