Fluoxetine

Does your dog have behavioral issues? If so, the vet may prescribe them fluoxetine. Fluoxetine is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) antidepressant used for both humans and animals.

Before giving any new medication to your dog you’ll want to know more about it including how it will help and how effective it is. 

Read our guide to fluoxetine for dogs to understand: 

• That fluoxetine is used to treat various types of anxiety in dogs
• Fluoxetine can also treat aggression and obsessive-compulsive disorders 
• It can be given with or without food
• Possible fluoxetine side effects include weight loss, insomnia and lethargy
  
  

How can fluoxetine help my dog? 

So, what is fluoxetine used for? Fluoxetine is a dog anxiety treatment used for behavioral disorders. 

Fluoxetine uses include:

• Separation anxiety
• Aggression
• Generalized anxiety 
• Obsessive-compulsive disorders 
• Inappropriate urination or marking

These dog anxiety meds are considered most effective when paired with an appropriate training method.

Fluoxetine brand names include: 

• Reconcile (for dogs) 
• Prozac (for humans)

You want your pet insurance to cover medication such as fluoxetine. It’s quick and easy to compare thebest pet insurance plans so you can make sure you have one that does. 

Efficacy of fluoxetine for dogs

Fluoxetine for dogs has shown varying amounts of success for several behavioral issues, and has been proven even more effective when combined with behavior modification training.

One study showed a 59% success rate in treating fear aggression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behavior and self-mutilation when the medication was paired with a behavior modification plan.

Another study that tested the efficacy of fluoxetine in both its human form of Prozac and the veterinary formulation of Reconcile for treating separation anxiety found a 72% improvement when used in conjunction with a behavior modification plan.

Two studies have also proven fluoxetine’s efficacy in treating compulsive and obsessive-compulsive disorders such as fly-biting and tail-chasing.

Dogs who had taken fluoxetine were shown to be 8.7 times more likely to see an improvement in compulsive behavior than those taking a placebo. A 2015 study that treated dogs specifically for fly-biting saw a positive response in 100% of cases.

How is fluoxetine given to dogs? 

Fluoxetine is given to dogs orally once a day over a long period of time. This medication works slowly, and results may not be seen for three to four weeks, and often for up to eight weeks.

During this time, testing may be used to evaluate the effectiveness of this medication. Always talk with your veterinarian before you stop using it as there may be unpleasant side effects.

You’re probably wondering, what time of the day should I give my dog fluoxetine? This medication can be given with or without food. But, the best time to give it to them is in the morning before they have their breakfast.

If your dog vomits when taking it on an empty stomach, give it to them with a meal or treat. While taking fluoxetine, dogs must not eat aged cheeses. 

If your dog is taking medication alongside their food then you want to ensure it is extra tasty while being incredibly beneficial to their health. Check out our friends over at Dog Food Advisor for advice on the best fresh dog food and the best natural dog food.

Fluoxetine dosage for dogs

Fluoxetine for dogs is sold as individual tablets or capsules available in 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, or 90 mg strengths. It is also available in liquid form. 

An average dose of fluoxetine for dogs is:

•  0.5 mg to 2 mg  per kilogram of weight daily

The exact dosage depends on the condition it’s being prescribed for, as well as the response of the dog to treatment.

Fluoxetine side effects

Possible fluoxetine side effects can include:

• Lethargy
• Insomnia
• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Restlessness
• Irritability
• Panting
• Increased vocalization
• Increased salivation
• Anxiety
• Hyperactivity
• Weight loss
• Weakness

The following serious side effects warrant seeing your veterinarian right away if they appear:

• Seizures
• Tremors
• Muscle twitching
• Blistered or peeling skin rash
• Incoordination
• Confusion
• Aggression
• Persistent or excessive vomiting
• Fast heartbeat

The side effects should disappear a few days after your dog stops taking fluoxetine. 

Drug interactions

There is some medication that shouldn’t be given together. Fluoxetine and trazodone for dogs, for example, are both antidepressants and so you don’t want to be giving them both at the same time as they may interact with each other. 

Medication that can interact with fluoxetine, includes: 

• Anti-anxiety medications (alprazolam, diazepam, buspirone)
• Anticoagulants (warfarin)
• Antidepressants (clomipramine, amitriptyline, imipramine, trazodone)
• Antihistamine (cyproheptadine)
• Antibiotic (isoniazid)
• Anti-parasitic medication (amitraz)
• Anti-seizure medication (phenytoin)
• Beta blockers (propranolol, metoprolol)
• Digitalis glycosides (digoxin)
• Diuretics
• Flea/tick collars (preventic collar)
• Insulin
• MAO inhibitors (anipryl, selegiline) 
• NSAIDs (aspirin, carprofen, piroxicam, etodolac)
• Opiate pain relievers (methadone, pentazocine, tramadol)
• Sedatives (acepromazine)
• St. John’s wort (which is toxic to dogs and should not be used)

Serotonin syndrome is a serious drug-reaction that is often caused by combining two medications that increase serotonin levels. The most common combination known to cause this condition are SSRI medications, such as fluoxetine, with MAO inhibitors.

Symptoms of this syndrome can include tremors, dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, and elevated heart rate and blood pressure.

Allergic reactions to fluoxetine 

If your dog develops an allergic reaction to fluoxetine, you may see symptoms such as a skin rash or hives, difficulty breathing, or a swelling in the throat, face, lips or tongue. 

Other common symptoms of an allergic reaction include head shaking, a sneezy or runny nose, intense scratching or diarrhea. Be sure to seek advice from your veterinarian right away if these symptoms appear when taking fluoxetine.

How much does fluoxetine cost?

Fluoxetine — safety considerations 

There are several considerations to note before starting a fluoxetine prescription. Don't give your dog this medication if they are allergic to fluoxetine, are under six months old, or are pregnant or lactating.

Do not use a flea and tick collars when administering fluoxetine to your dog, and, again, avoid feeding your dog aged cheeses.

Dogs with a history of seizures, diabetes mellitus, or severe liver disease shouldn’t take fluoxetine. Fluoxetine and MAO inhibitors should not be taken together, and need a period of time between their individual use in the same animal.

Fluoxetine for dogs is best used for behavioral issues in conjunction with behavior modification training.

Fluoxetine — frequently asked questions

Fluoxetine is generally a safe and effective medication for dogs to take. But, if you haven’t given it to them before then you are likely to have some questions.

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions — and, if there’s anything you’re really worried about or need to know, you should always speak to your vet. 

Does fluoxetine require a prescription?

Yes, fluoxetine for dogs does require a prescription from your veterinarian.

What do I do if I miss a dose of fluoxetine?

If you miss a dose of fluoxetine, give your dog the missed dose when you remember. If it’s close to the time the next dose is scheduled, skip the missed dose and give the regularly scheduled dose on time. Never give your dog two doses of this medication at once. 

Will my veterinarian monitor my dog while taking fluoxetine?

Your veterinarian may not need to monitor your dog while taking fluoxetine, unless any adverse side effects or symptoms appear.

Is fluoxetine for dogs the same as for humans?

Can you give your dog Prozac? No. While the active ingredient in Prozac is the same as in veterinary formulations of fluoxetine, the dosages may be different. Consult with your veterinarian who will prescribe a veterinary formulation of fluoxetine that is made for canine dosing.

What should I do in an emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or allergic reaction, contact your veterinarian or local veterinary emergency clinic immediately. Signs of an overdose generally appear within 30 to 60 minutes of medication administration. A toxic dose of fluoxetine in dogs can result in lethargy, excessive salivation, and seizures.

How is fluoxetine stored?

Medical formulations of fluoxetine should be stored at room temperature (between 68°F and 77°F) in a closed container away from moisture and light.

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