Does your dog have anxiety? If so, your vet may prescribe them buspirone. Buspirone is an anti-anxiety medicine for dogs. But, before giving your dog any new medication you’ll want to know as much as you can about it, including how it will help and what side effects they may experience.
Read our guide to buspirone for dogs and you’ll learn:
- Buspirone is an anti-anxiety medication
- It treats anxious behaviors as well as a range of fears and phobias
- It can take at least a few weeks to see changes in your dog’s behavior
- You should be cautious when giving buspirone to dogs with a history of aggression
How can buspirone help my dog?
Buspirone was first developed as an anti-anxiety medication for use in humans. It was designed to replace drugs like diazepam and can help manage anxiety with minimal sedation and muscle relaxation, plus no risk of addiction.
So if this medication is for humans, as a pet parent you’re likely to be wondering, can dogs take buspirone? The answer is yes they can, but buspirone for dogs is a prescription medication and should only be given on the advice of a veterinarian.
It’s not currently FDA-approved, so is known as ‘off-label’ or ‘extra-label.’ This is when vets legally prescribe human drugs for animals but this use is not described on the label.
So, what is buspirone? Buspirone, also commonly known by the brand name BuSpar, is a medication used to help reduce your dog’s anxiety. As with humans, these anxiety meds for dogs most commonly treat mild, generalized fear and anxiety.
It helps reduce anxious and abnormal behavior in dogs who suffer from fears and phobias, such as thunderstorm phobia or fear of loud noises.
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Dosage
Buspirone is available in tablet form, with dosage strengths ranging from 5 milligrams to 30 milligrams. The dosage amount of buspirone depends on the size of the dog and the condition.
However, the typical dose ranges anywhere from 2.5 milligrams to 15 milligrams 2 to 3 times a day.
Make sure to follow your veterinarian’s dosage instructions when giving buspirone to your dog.
Efficacy
Researchers don’t fully understand how buspirone works for dogs. However, it’s believed it rebalances the levels of serotonin and dopamine — two key chemical messengers. These are in parts of the brain where emotional processing takes place.
It is worth noting that this prescription drug can take anywhere from 7 to 30 days to reach full effectiveness. It’s typically given to dogs long-term. Therefore, it’s not recommended for cases of acute anxiety.
It’s also believed that this medication is better suited to treating anxiety in pets with no history of aggression towards humans or other dogs.
How is buspirone given to dogs?
Buspirone is a tablet, so it’s given to your dog by mouth. It can be given with or without food. If you give it without food, and they have stomach upset after taking the medication, try giving it to them with a small amount of food.
It's sometimes combined with other sedatives or tranquilizing drugs.
The duration of treatment with buspirone varies depending on the condition and how the pet responds to the medication. However, single doses are unlikely to be effective, as buspirone may take a few weeks to achieve its full effects.
Stick to the dosage schedule recommended by your veterinarian. Your vet may also adjust the dosage level based on your pet’s response to buspirone.
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Side effects
The side effects of buspirone for dogs are generally quite rare. However, they can include:
- Increased friendliness and affection
- Increased playfulness
- Increased aggression
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Reduced heart rate
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Agitation
You should speak to your vet straight away if you’re concerned about the effect buspirone is having on your dog.
Drug interactions
Buspirone for dogs may interact with some other drugs, such as:
- Antibiotics (such as erythromycin)
- Antifungals (such as ketoconazole and itraconazole)
- Antacids (such as cimeditine)
- Appetite stimulants (such as mirtazapine)
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (such as L-Deprenyl)
- Flea and tick preventatives (such as amitraz)
- Heart medications (such as diltiazem)
This isn’t a complete list of drugs buspirone may interact with. Consult your veterinarian to find out whether it’s safe for your dog to be given buspirone along with their current medication.
Allergic reactions to buspirone
You should never give buspirone to dogs who are allergic to it. You can speak to your vet about alternative medication instead.
You should also be cautious when giving buspirone to dogs who:
- Have liver disease
- Have kidney disease
- Are pregnant or nursing
- Are aggressive
How much does buspirone cost?
The cost will vary depending on the brand and the dosage your dog requires. However, generic buspirone for dogs ranges from 10¢ to 75¢ per 5-milligram tablet.
Buspirone — safety considerations
Be sure to discuss your dog’s full medical history and regular medications, including over-the-counter supplements, with your vet.
Buspirone for dogs may produce adverse reactions in some pets. It can also interact with other medications your dog is taking, including ingredients in some flea and tick collars.
Additionally, it may not be suitable for pets with underlying health issues.
Buspirone is a safe and effective medication for dogs. But, you’re likely to have some questions before you give it to them. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions.
Remember, you should always speak to your vet if there is anything you are really worried about or need to know.
How should I store buspirone?
You need to store buspirone at room temperature in a sealed container away from direct sunlight.
What happens if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, just give your dog their next tablet at the regular scheduled time. Never give a double dose of medication to your pet.
What should I do if my pet has an adverse reaction to buspirone or overdoses?
If, when giving buspirone, your dog overdoses, you need to take them to the vet straight away. Likewise, if they appear to be having an adverse reaction to the medication then you need to see the vet as soon as possible.
Can dogs have buspirone for humans?
If you take buspirone yourself, or know someone who does, you may be wondering if your dog can just take that. The answer is a definite no. You should never give your dog medication without speaking to the vet.
Their dose will be determined by the vet and be based on several factors including their size. The vet may also decide that buspirone isn’t the best medication for your dog (or that can’t have it) and could prescribe something more appropriate.
Can you use buspirone for dog aggression?
You do need to be cautious when giving buspirone to dogs that are aggressive — make sure you let your vet know if this is the case. If the aggression is related to your dog's fears then the vet may continue with buspirone and it could help with this.
If you give them the medicine and you don’t see a change in this behavior then let your vet know and they will be able to advise you on what to do next.
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