Trazodone
Brands: Desyrel, Oleptro
Trazodone is a sedative used in pets to manage anxiety and behavioral issues.
Used for
- anxiety
- behavioral issues
- situational stress
How it is given
- Administration
- oral
- Frequency
- once or twice daily
- Duration
- as prescribed by a veterinarian
- 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
- 25-50 mg per cat
dog
- Large dogs
- 3-5 mg/kg
- Small dogs
- 3-5 mg/kg
- Medium dogs
- 3-5 mg/kg
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- trazodone hydrochloride
Side effects
Common
- sedation
- lethargy
- gastrointestinal upset
Rare
- priapism
Severe
- seizures or severe behavioral changes
Do not use when
- hypersensitivity to trazodone
- liver impairment
Interacts with
- MAO inhibitors
- other serotonin-affecting medications
Warnings
- Use caution in pets with liver or kidney impairment
- Avoid use in pets with hypersensitivity
Trazodone questions
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Administer the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it's close to the next scheduled dose.
Can trazodone be used long-term?
Yes, but only under the guidance of a veterinarian.
What if my pet overdoses?
Contact your veterinarian immediately or visit an emergency clinic.
Is trazodone safe for puppies or kittens?
Use with caution, and only if prescribed by a veterinarian.
Can trazodone be used with other medications?
Yes, but inform your veterinarian about all other medications your pet is taking.
Full drug detail
Overview
Trazodone is a prescription medication commonly used in veterinary medicine to manage anxiety, behavioral issues, and stress in pets, particularly dogs and cats. It serves as a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI), impacting serotonin levels in the brain to help improve mood and behavior.
How It Works
Trazodone works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in mood regulation. This action increases serotonin levels in the brain, contributing to its calming effects.
Uses & Indications
Trazodone is primarily used to treat:
- Anxiety
- Fear-based behaviors
- Situational stress (e.g., thunderstorms, fireworks)
Dosage Guidelines
Dogs
- Small Dogs: 3-5 mg/kg
- Medium Dogs: 3-5 mg/kg
- Large Dogs: 3-5 mg/kg
Cats
- Standard Dosage: 25-50 mg per cat, depending on the specific case.
Administration
Trazodone is administered orally in tablet form. It is typically given once or twice daily, depending on the severity of the condition and the veterinarian's instructions.
Side Effects
Common
- Sedation
- Lethargy
- Gastrointestinal upset
Rare
- Priapism (prolonged erection in males)
Severe
- Seizures or severe behavioral changes should prompt immediate veterinary attention.
Precautions & Warnings
- Trazodone should not be used in pets with hypersensitivity to the drug.
- Use caution in animals with liver or kidney impairment.
Drug Interactions
- MAO inhibitors
- Other serotonin-affecting medications
Storage
Store trazodone at room temperature away from moisture and light.
FAQ
-
What should I do if I miss a dose? Administer the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it's close to the next scheduled dose.
-
Can trazodone be used long-term? Yes, but only under the guidance of a veterinarian.
-
What if my pet overdoses? Contact your veterinarian immediately or visit an emergency clinic.
-
Is trazodone safe for puppies or kittens? Use with caution, and only if prescribed by a veterinarian.
-
Can trazodone be used with other medications? Yes, but inform your veterinarian about all other medications your pet is taking.