Fluoxetine HCL (Prozac®, Reconcile®)

PetMD’s medications content was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer your most common questions about how medications function, their side effects, and what species they are prescribed for. This content shouldn’t take the place of advice by your vet.

What is Fluoxetine?

Fluoxetine is the active ingredient in the human medications Prozac^®, Rapiflux^®, Sarafem^® and Selfemra^® and the canine medication Reconcile^®. Fluoxetine is used in animals as a behavior-modifying medication and is commonly prescribed to treat separation anxiety in dogs.

It is important to note that all behavior-modifying medications are typically best utilized in combination with a behavior modification plan. This can be achieved in partnership with a veterinarian or certified trainer.

How Fluoxetine Works

Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, a chemical in the brain that sends messages throughout the nervous system. Serotonin is responsible for moderating mood and behavior, and low levels are thought to contribute to stress and anxiety. SSRIs such as fluoxetine block serotonin from being absorbed back into the nervous system. This increases the amount of serotonin between the nerves and helps the brain regulate mood and behavior.

Fluoxetine HCL (chewable tablets) (brand name Reconcile^®) is FDA approved for use in dogs to treat separation anxiety, in conjunction with behavioral modification, but Reconcile^® and generic fluoxetine are also commonly prescribed off-label to treat other behavioral disorders such as anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behaviors in dogs. This is called extra-label or off-label use because this use isn’t described on the drug label. Fluoxetine is also prescribed off-label in cats for inappropriate urination and separation anxiety. 

Fluoxetine is readily utilized in the veterinary field, and veterinarians can legally prescribe certain human drugs, like fluoxetine, in animals in certain circumstances. Your veterinarian will determine which dose and route of administration is right for your pet. Never give your pet a human medication unless prescribed by your veterinarian.

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has a history of epilepsy or seizures, or if your pet is also taking other medications that lower the seizure threshold (e.g., phenothiazines such as acepromazine or chlorpromazine), as fluoxetine may increase your pet’s risk of seizures. Your veterinarian will also determine whether there are any other contraindications. 

Fluoxetine Directions

Follow the directions on the drug label or as provided by your veterinarian. 

Your veterinarian may give instructions to administer this medication by mouth once or twice daily, with once daily being most common. It can take up to 4-8 weeks for full effect to be observed. If your veterinarian decides to take your pet off this medication, follow their directions carefully on how to appropriately discontinue fluoxetine. 

Missed a Dose?
Speak with your veterinarian about what to do if you forget to give a dose of fluoxetine. Generally, they may advise you to give the dose when you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, your veterinarian may instruct you to skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing schedule. In most cases, your veterinarian may instruct you to not give extra or double doses. 

Human Side Effects
While this is a human medication, there are different dosages and side effects that can occur in humans.  If you accidentally ingest this medication, or if skin or eye irritation occurs, immediately seek medical attention or call  the national Poison Control Center hotline at 800-222-1222.

Monitoring
Typically, beyond monitoring your pet’s response to fluoxetine, no specific monitoring is required for this medication. However, your veterinarian may recommend routine testing depending on your pets' individual needs, other medications they may be on and/or the issue that initially caused your pet to be placed on this medication. If there is no improvement in your pets' symptoms after 8 weeks on this medication your veterinarian may suggest additional or alternative treatment options.

Fluoxetine Possible Side Effects

• Loss of appetite/weight loss

• Seizures 

• Lethargy

• Gastrointestinal side effects (vomiting and/or diarrhea)

• Behavior changes (aggression, irritability, hyperactivity, anxiety)

• Drooling

• Panting

• Confusion

• Incoordination

If you believe your pet may be experiencing any side effects of fluoxetine, consult your veterinarian. 

Call Your Vet If:

• Severe side effects are seen (see above), including the first sign of seizures

• Your pet’s condition worsens or does not improve with treatment

• You see or suspect an overdose

• You have additional questions or concerns about the use of fluoxetine

Fluoxetine Overdose Information

Large overdoses of fluoxetine may cause seizures. Other signs of an overdose may include lethargy, agitation, incoordination, and excess drooling.

If you suspect an overdose, immediately seek emergency veterinary care  or contact an animal poison control center. Consultation fees often apply.
Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661
ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435

Fluoxetine Storage

Fluoxetine tablets and capsules should be stored at controlled room temperatures between 68°-77°F and brief exposure to temperatures 59°-86°F are acceptable. 

Keep the container tightly closed in light-resistant containers to protect this medication from moisture and light. 

Do not discard the desiccant (e.g., silica gel packet) from the bottle. 

Always confirm storage requirements by reviewing the label.

Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Fluoxetine FAQs

WRITTEN BY

Stephanie Howe, DVM

Veterinarian

Dr. Stephanie Howe graduated from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in 2011, after receiving a Bachelor of Science...