Trazodone

What is Trazodone?

Trazodone is an antidepressant used in dogs and cats for the treatment of anxiety and/or behavioral problems. It is useful to help calm pets during times of stress, such as loud noises from thunderstorms or fireworks, separation anxiety, travel, and also during periods of activity restriction following surgery. Trazodone is sold per tablet and requires a prescription from your veterinarian.

For:

Cats and Dogs

Benefits

• Calms pets during times of stress
• May be used with other anti-anxiety medications and/or in conjunction with behavior modification training
• Sold per tablet

How does Trazodone work?

Trazodone is a serotonin antagonist reuptake inhibitor (SARI) and works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, helping to reduce anxiety and impulsive or unwanted behaviors.

Cautions:

Trazodone shouldn't be used in pets with a hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug. It also may interact with other medications. Trazodone should be administered exactly as directed by your veterinarian.

Brand Name:

Oleptro, Desyrel

Generic Name:

Trazodone

What is the most important thing I should know about Trazodone?

Trazodone is used in dogs and cats to treat anxiety and/or behavioral problems. It can also be used in cats, mostly for travel-related anxiety. Trazodone requires a prescription, is sold per tablet, and is available as 50 mg, 100 mg, and 150 mg tablets.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Trazodone to my pet?

Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or used for breeding. Also tell your veterinarian if your pet is on any other medications, specifically monoamine oxidase inhibitors or antifungal medications, as these may interact with Trazodone.

How should Trazodone be given?

Trazodone should only be given as prescribed by your veterinarian. The usual dose for cats is 50-100 mg total dose for short term use as often as your veterinarian prescribes. The usual dose for dogs is approximately 3.5 mg/lb daily or as directed by your veterinarian.

What are the potential side effects of Trazodone?

Potential side effects from Trazodone include sedation, lethargy, diarrhea, panting, vomiting, hyperactivity, shaking, agitation, and/or restlessness.

What happens if I miss giving a dose of Trazodone?

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal dosing schedule. Do not give a double dose.

What happens if I overdose my pet on Trazodone?

An overdose of Trazodone may cause seizure or coma. Contact your veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic immediately if an overdose of Trazodone is suspected.

What should I avoid while giving Trazodone to my pet?

Do not give Trazodone to pets with known hypersensitivity to this medication. Do not give to dogs or cats with history of heart disease, liver disease or kidney disease. Use with caution in male breeding dogs, as priapism (prolonged erection) may occur while using Trazodone.

What other drugs will affect Trazodone?

Trazodone may interact with other medications, including monoamine oxidase inhibitors (selegiline and amitraz), diazepam, phenylbutazone, digoxin or buspirone. Some antifungal medications, such as ketoconazole and itraconazole may change the metabolism of Trazodone.