GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Trazodone is a behavior modifying medication. Behavior issues in dogs and cats are a common problem that are challenging for many owners. Some behavior disorders are simply frustrating while others can be unacceptable or potentially dangerous. Often, medications are utilized to assist with training and behavior modification is encouraged. Trazodone is available in the form of a tablet.
WHAT IS THIS DRUG?
- An antidepressant
- A serotonin antagonist/reuptake inhibitor which increases the activity of serotonin in the central nervous system
- Given by mouth
REASONS FOR PRESCRIBING:
- Used to reduce anxiety in order to modify or manage unwanted behaviors such as phobias, fears and separation anxiety
- May be used to assist with restricting activity and cage rest following an orthopedic procedure or surgery
WHAT DOGS/CATS SHOULD NOT TAKE THIS MEDICATION?
- Not typically used in cats
- This medication should not be used in patients receiving monoamine oxidase inhibitors
- This medication should not be used in animals that require full alertness when performing –
- guide dogs, police dogs, rescue dogs
- Safety in pregnant or nursing pets has not been established
- Animals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to this drug should not take this medication
Directions
Read and follow the prescription label carefully.
Give the exact amount prescribed and only as often as directed.
It may require several days or weeks to determine efficacy of this medication.
Discuss with your veterinarian if this medication is to be given with food.
Give this medication for as long as your veterinarian directs. Do not skip doses or stop giving the
medication without consulting your veterinarian.
Baseline blood work may be recommended to assess your pet’s general health before starting this medication.
Periodic blood work to monitor its effects on the body may also be advised if long term therapy is necessary. Dose adjustments may be made based upon these results and an assessment of how your dog is responding clinically.
This medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours. Improvement in clinical signs should follow. Call ahead for refills. Ideally, give this medication at the same time(s) daily.
What if a dose is missed?
If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you can. If it is time already for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to the normal schedule. Do not give two doses at the same time.
What to tell/ask your veterinarian before giving this medication?
Talk to your veterinarian about:
- When your pet will need to be rechecked
- What tests may need to be performed prior to and during treatment with this drug
- What are the risks and benefits of using this drug
Tell to your veterinarian about:
- If your pet has experienced side effects on other drugs/products
- If your pet has experienced digestive upset now or ever
- If your pet has experienced liver or kidney disease now or ever
- If your pet has experienced any other medical problems or allergies now or ever
- All medicines and supplements that you are giving your pet or plan to give your pet, including those you can get without a prescription. Your veterinarian may want to check that all of your pet’s medications can be given together.
- If your pet is pregnant, nursing or if you plan to breed your pet
Storage and Warnings
Trazodone should be stored in a childproof container in a cool, dry place at room temperature away from heat and direct sunlight.
Keep this and all medication out of reach of children and pets.
Call your physician immediately if you accidentally take this product.
Potential Side Effects
- This medication has fewer adverse effects than tricyclic antidepressants
- This medication can affect the central nervous system causing sedation, lethargy, incoordination, increased anxiety and aggression
- This medication can affect the gastrointestinal system causing an increase in appetite, vomiting and diarrhea
- If you notice any of these symptoms or if your pet’s condition worsens contact your veterinarian
- This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects may last longer in pets with liver or kidney disease
Can this drug be given with other medications?
Yes, but possible interactions may occur when giving Trazodone in conjunction with aspirin, azole antifungals (e.g. ketoconazole, fluconazole), blood pressure medications, central nervous system depressants, digoxin, macrolide antibiotics (e.g. erythromycin, clarithromycin), metoclopramide, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, NSAIDs, phenothiazines, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (e.g. fluoxetine)
- If Trazodone is used with other serotonergic drugs, there is increased risk for serotonin syndrome: vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, hyperthermia, depression, dilated pupils, vocalization, death, blindness, increased salivation, difficulty breathing, incoordination and coma
- Drugs other than those listed may also interact with Trazodone
- Do not give new food or medications without first talking to your veterinarian
- If your pet experiences any unusual reactions when taking multiple medications, contact your veterinarian
What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet receives more than the prescribed amount.
What else should I know?
Notify your veterinarian if your animal’s condition does not improve or worsens despite this treatment.
As with all prescribed medicines, Trazodone should only be given to the pet for which it was prescribed. It should be given only for the condition for which it was prescribed.
This is just a summary of information about Trazodone. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication or the condition it was prescribed for, please contact your veterinarian.
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