Fluoxetine
(floo-ox-e-teen)
Description: Selective Serotonin-Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI); Behavior-modification Drug
Other Names for this Medication: Prozac®, Reconcile®
Common Dosage Forms: Veterinary: 8 mg, 16 mg, 32 mg, & 64 mg chewable flavored tablets

How is this medication useful?
Veterinarians may prescribe fluoxetine for treating behavior problems such as aggression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and anxiety in dogs, cats, and birds. It may also be useful in cats for inappropriate elimination. The FDA has approved this drug for use in dogs for treating canine separation anxiety. The FDA
allows veterinarians to prescribe and use products containing this drug in other animal species in certain situations. You and your veterinarian can discuss why this drug is the most appropriate choice.

Common but not serious side effects include: Drowsiness, lack of energy. Reduced appetite, vomiting, diarrhea. Shaking, shivering, tremors, restlessness, or panting.Excessive vocalization, including whining. Cats: Irritability, sleep disturbances, reduced appetite, and changes in urination and defecation habits (eg, going more or less than normal, diarrhea, color). You don’t have to be overly concerned if you see any of these signs unless they persist or worsen. Contact your veterinarian if this happens.

If you have any other questions about this medication, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist.