Because of its sedative and anxiety-relieving properties, trazodone is a medication that is frequently used in veterinary medicine. Veterinarians have only recently started using this drug for dogs, despite the fact that it was initially created more than fifty years ago for use in humans.
Trazodone is given to some dogs to treat underlying behavioral or anxiety disorders. Although it can be used alone, trazodone is frequently combined with other psychotropic medications in this situation. Trazodone can be taken on a regular basis or used as an “event drug” prior to tense situations.
Many veterinarians also prescribe trazodone to lessen the anxiety related to veterinary visits. Giving trazodone to anxious dogs can help them feel less anxious as well as increase the likelihood that the vet will be able to conduct a thorough examination, make an accurate diagnosis, and administer the necessary treatment.
Trazodone is a serotonin modulator. This medication works to control serotonin levels in the brain, a neurotransmitter that reduces anxiety and mild sedation.
Trazodone was first created in Italy in the 1960s as a medication for treating depression in people. Due to the medication’s sedative effects on patients, however, it did not quickly become widely used. Over time, dosing guidelines were changed, and in the 1980s, the drug was authorized for use in humans in the United States.
Trazodone has been used in humans for a very long time, but for the past 10 years or so, it has only recently been applied to veterinary patients. Although the FDA has not approved trazodone for use in animals, veterinarians often prescribe it off-label as an anxiety medication for dogs.
Typically, trazodone is given as a small, white tablet with a score down the middle. Trazodone is also available less frequently as a liquid suspension or in capsule form.
What Is Trazodone Used For in Dogs?
Dogs may benefit from the use of trazodone in a variety of situations. Trazodone can help manage generalized anxiety, but it’s typically used to treat situational anxiety and offer momentary sedation.
The administration of trazodone to dogs who are fearful or difficult to control in specific situations, such as travel or doctor visits, may be beneficial. In order to reduce activity during the recovery period and give the surgical incisions time to heal, some veterinarians also prescribe trazodone for dogs after surgery.
Trazodone is commonly used to help with the following:
Trazodone in dogs rarely causes side effects that aren’t self-limiting. Dogs can occasionally become simply lethargic or drowsy than expected. Less frequently, the drug may cause dogs to become slightly excited or anxious.
This anxiety or lowering of inhibitions may, in extremely rare circumstances, increase the likelihood of aggressive behaviors. Additionally, gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and/or diarrhea may be seen
Possible side effects of trazodone for dogs include:
Contact your veterinarian to discuss your options if your dog experiences any side effects after receiving trazodone.
Signs of overdose are typically seen about 30 to 60 minutes after exposure. Usually, the clinical signs last 10 to 12 hours, but in some cases, they might last for more than 24 hours.
Trazodone can be administered either routinely or before stressful situations. In actuality, some veterinarians advise it to lessen anxiety prior to a visit. This will help the dog relax and make it easier for the veterinarian to conduct the examination.
The drug is not recommended for dogs hypersensitive to the medication. It should also be used with caution in dogs with heart disease as well as those suffering from kidney or liver disease. Dogs with narrow-angle glaucoma should not use the medication either.
The drug has been around since the 1980s but vets started using it in the last decade or so. Even though it’s not approved by the FDA for use in animals, trazodone is often prescribed as an anti-anxiety drug for dogs.
Trazodone is thought to be quite safe to use in dogs, only rarely leading to minor side effects. The dog will typically become more sedated or lethargic than anticipated. The medication may occasionally cause mild excitation or anxiety in some dogs, and this anxiety may very rarely lead to aggressive behavior. GI symptoms like diarrhea or vomiting are also possible.
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Review and editing of accuracy: Nicole Wanner, DVM – June 7, 2021
Louis sprinted to the window and started barking. Unaware man had approached a little too closely for his taste. He was most likely the person who set off fireworks the night before. A trauma that wed barely just recovered from. I had to find a way to help Louis relax. I didnt even want to consider the alternative. A friend mentioned Trazodone might help calm him down. It was time to take Louis to the veterinarian, even though I knew he wouldn’t like it.
Serotonin levels in the brain are stabilized and raised by the antidepressant trazodone. By interacting with and blocking some serotonin receptors, it achieves this. As a result, your dog’s system contains more serotonin for a longer period of time. Having more serotonin around tends to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression because serotonin is the hormone that causes happiness in humans and dogs. But it comes with some risks, just like any medication that modifies body chemistry. Trazodone for dogs is the same medication as for humans. Despite being created and designed for humans, it is prescribed for dogs off-label. Trazodone is frequently prescribed by veterinarians to treat severe behavioral problems like fear, aggression, and anxiety When all other options have been exhausted, it is typically used.
The dosage for Trazodone for dogs ranges from 2. Every 24 hours, 5 mg to 15 mg per pound. The precise dosage will be determined by your dog’s condition, health, and a number of other factors by your veterinarian. To reduce side effects, it is frequently first prescribed at a lower dose and then gradually increased over time. The recommended dose will frequently be reduced when taking a drug in combination for safety reasons. It is available as tablets that can be swallowed with or without food. Although it begins to work in about 30 minutes, the full effects may not become apparent for up to 6 weeks of consistent use. Trazodone’s effects can linger for a day in healthy dogs and for longer in sick or liver dogs.
Trazodone is a sedative, so even though it’s generally considered safe for dogs, you might experience side effects like lethargy. Here is a list of possible side effects:
A less frequent but potentially dangerous side effect is serotonin syndrome. Seizures, vomiting, diarrhea, dilated pupils, and breathing difficulties are some symptoms of serotonin syndrome. If your dog exhibits any of these signs, you should see a veterinarian right away.
Each tablet of trazodone costs about $1, with prices varying depending on concentration. It comes in tablet forms with strengths ranging from 50 to 300 mg.
FAQ
What does trazodone make dogs feel like?
Trazodone is generally well tolerated by dogs. The most common side effects of trazodone in dogs include sedation, increased hunger, behavioural disinhibition (when dogs do not consider the repercussions of their actions), vomiting, diarrhea, and hyperactivity (paradoxical effect).
How long does trazodone take to kick in for dogs?
When used for short-term stress relief, this medication will start working within 1 to 2 hours, but when used for long-term treatment, it may take several weeks before the full effects are felt.
Why do dogs act weird after trazodone?
Dog Trazodone Side Effects In general, trazodone side effects in dogs are uncommon. The most frequent adverse reaction is when a dog becomes lethargic or sedated than anticipated, but the effect subsides fairly quickly. Less frequently, the drug could cause slight anxiety or excitement in dogs.
What are the most common side effects of trazodone in dogs?
Sedation and lethargy were reported in 104 dogs who experienced negative effects, accounting for 43% of the dogs. Ataxia was reported in 16% and vomiting in 14%. Lethargy, sedation, depression, somnolence, and subdued behavior are all generally thought to be common symptoms of trazodone exposure.