What is fluoxetine?
Fluoxetine (brand names: Prozac®, Reconcile®, Sarafem®) is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) antidepressant used to treat a variety of behavioral disorders in dogs and cats. The FDA approved form for dogs is labeled to treat separation anxiety.
Its use in cats, dogs, and birds to treat certain behavioral conditions is “off label” or “extra label”. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
How is fluoxetine given?
- Fluoxetine is given by mouth, in the form of a tablet, capsule, or liquid.
- Measure liquid forms of this medication carefully.
- It may be given with or without food, but if your pet vomits when dosed on an empty stomach, give future doses with a meal or a treat.
- Do not stop this medication abruptly unless instructed by your veterinarian.
- Do not give this medication in conjunction with flea/tick collar use.
- Do not give aged cheeses to your pet while using this medication.
This medication can take up to a few weeks before full effects are noted. At times, improvement may not be obvious. Laboratory tests may be required to evaluate this medication’s effectiveness.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Are there any potential side effects?
Fluoxetine may cause the following side effects:
- sleepiness (common)
- decreased appetite (common)
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- shaking
- restlessness
- panting
- whining/vocalization
- incoordination
- hypersalivation
- weight loss
In cats, side effects may include:
- anxiety
- irritability
- lack of appetite
- diarrhea
- changes in sleep
- changes in bathroom use
Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving fluoxetine and contact your veterinarian immediately:
- seizures
- aggression
- excessive/persistent vomiting
This moderate-acting medication should stop working in a few days, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
Fluoxetine should NOT BE USED in pets that:
- have a history of seizures
- are on medications that lower the seizure threshold
- are allergic to it
- are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- are younger than 6 months of age
- are aggressive
Fluoxetine should be USED WITH CAUTION in pets that:
- have diabetes mellitus
- have severe liver disease
- are pregnant or lactating
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
The following medications should be used with caution when given with fluoxetine:
- alprazolam
- amitriptyline
- anticoagulants
- aspirin
- diazepam
- diuretics
- flea/tick collars
- insulin
- monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum)
- tramadol
- trazodone
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- No specific monitoring is required while your pet is taking this medication.
- Your veterinarian may monitor your pet to be sure that the medication is working.
- Monitor your pet for serious/severe side effects.
How do I store fluoxetine?
- Store this medication in a tightly closed container at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
- Protect from moisture and light.
- For compounded forms of this medication, follow the directions on the label.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.
