Fluoxetine Cap

SSRI for behavioral disorders in dogs and cats including anxiety, aggression, OCD, and stereotypies; behavioral modification in horses. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant/anxiolytic (fluoxetine HCl). Mechanism: blocks serotonin (5-HT) transporter (SERT) → inhibits presynaptic serotonin reuptake → increased synaptic serotonin concentration → postsynaptic 5-HT receptor sensitization. Behavioral effects take 2–4 weeks. Active metabolite norfluoxetine (long half-life). Hepatically metabolized via CYP2D6/CYP2C9. Key information SSRI. Allow 4–6 weeks for full effect. Do not combine with MAOIs or other serotonergic drugs (serotonin syndrome). Very long half-life — drug interactions persist after discontinuation. Taper on discontinuation. Some animals show initial increased anxiety.

Oral tablets or capsules: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. to reduce GI upset. Capsules may be opened and mixed into food for compliance. Compounded flavored liquid (cats): measure carefully. Administer at consistent times. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. If the next dose is due within a few hours, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Never give a double dose. Allow 4–6 weeks for full effect — do not stop abruptly.

GI: decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (especially initial weeks). CNS: anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, agitation (initial), or sedation. Seizures (rare). Serotonin syndrome (with MAOIs or other serotonergic drugs — potentially fatal). Sexual dysfunction. Behavioral: paradoxical aggression in some cats. Slow taper required to discontinue.

For animals Allow 14 days washout from MAOIs before starting. Do not use concurrently with tramadol, trazodone, or other serotonergic drugs (serotonin syndrome). Monitor liver enzymes with prolonged use. Gradual dose taper on discontinuation to prevent withdrawal. Behavioral effects take 3–6 weeks. Use with caution in pregnant animals. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). SSRI — Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. after handling. Keep away from children. Serotonin syndrome risk if combined with human medications. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact.

Contact your veterinarian immediately. Fluoxetine overdose causes serotonin syndrome: agitation, hyperthermia, tremors, seizures, and rapid heart rate. Contact your veterinarian, a veterinary emergency clinic, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically directed by a veterinary professional.