Anxiety Meds
Anxiety medications are prescribed for those who experience an abnormal level of anxiety, either on a daily basis or in response to certain stimuli. Anxiety medications are prescribed for humans and pets.
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Acepromazine
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Acepromazine is a tranquilizer prescribed for dogs that are easily excitable and may be reserved for episodes of high anxiety over a particular stimulus, such as a thunderstorm. It does not necessarily need to be used on a regular basis. It works by relaxing the central nervous system.
VetInfo warns to speak with your veterinarian before using any anxiety medications for your dog. Possible side effects of acepromazine include pink urine. Signs of acepromazine overdose include lethargy, slowed pulse, seizures and staggered movements.
Hydroxyzine Pamoate (Vistaril)
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Hydroxyzine pamoate is commonly used as an allergy medication for dogs, but VetInfo states it can also be helpful as a dog sedative. It works by relaxing the central nervous system.
According to VetInfo, possible side effects include blurred vision, confusion, dry mouth, nausea, dizziness, lethargy and vomiting.
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Clomipramine (Anafranil or Clomicam)
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Clomipramine treats separation anxiety and particular behavioral problems in dogs, such as excessive barking and inappropriate urination or defecation. Clomipramine regulates serotonin levels in the dog's brain through an active ingredient that is part of a class of tricyclic antidepressants.
VetInfo warns that clomipramine shouldn't be used if the dog has a known sensitivity to it or in combination with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). Breeding male dogs might develop testicular hypoplasia. Before being prescribed clomipramine, VetInfo recommends informing your vet if your dog suffers from seizures.
Fluoxetine
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Fluoxetine is prescribed for humans as Prozac or Reconcile and is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) drug. Fluoxetine is also used as an anxiety medication for dogs, but does not have an immediate effect. Therefore it cannot be used for immediate panic control.
According to VetInfo, fluoxetine has several known drug interactions. It may alter blood glucose levels and cause gastrointestinal problems, lethargy, lack of appetite and insomnia. These are more severe when used with other tricyclic anti-depressants and buspirone.
Amitryptiline
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Amitryptiline is a tricyclic anti-depressant, which increase neurotransmitters in the brain. While used for humans, vets use amitryptiline for dogs to help with anxiety and increased nervous system activity.
Overdose of amitryptiline is fatal. Some may experience rapid heartbeat, dry mouth and sedation as a form of drug reaction. This medication is not prescribed with known serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs). Allergic reactions require an alternative treatment. VetInfo recommends notifying your vet with any adverse reactions.
Tricyclic Antidepressant Side Effects
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According to VetInfo, several side effects are possible with dog tricyclic antidepressants, including constipation, dizziness, dry eyes, dry mouth, lethargy, loss of appetite, nausea and urinary retention.
Behavior Modification and Medications
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VetInfo recommends identifying what is inducing anxiety in your dog and using behavior modification in combination with medication usage to help relieve the stress.
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References
- Photo Credit dog image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com
