Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Trazodone used with other drugs to treat anxiety in 56 dogs
By Gruen, Margaret E & Sherman, Barbara L·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·2008·Department of Clinical Sciences, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Use of trazodone as an adjunctive agent in the treatment of canine anxiety disorders: 56 cases (1995-2007).
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of 56 dogs with anxiety disorders were treated with trazodone, a medication that helps calm them down, especially when other treatments weren't working. The dogs were given trazodone either daily or as needed, and it was found to be well tolerated and effective in improving their behavior. While more research is needed to fully understand the best dosages and long-term effects, trazodone could be a helpful option for anxious dogs who haven't responded to other medications.
People also search for: dog anxiety treatment · trazodone for dogs · calming medication for anxious dogs
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate efficacy of trazodone hydrochloride as an adjunctive treatment for anxiety disorders as well as treatment protocol, dose range, concurrent drug use, adverse events, and therapeutic response in dogs unresponsive to other pharmacologic agents. DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: 56 dogs with anxiety disorders treated at a referral veterinary behavior clinic. PROCEDURES: Medical records of dogs with anxiety disorders adjunctively treated with trazodone were retrospectively evaluated with respect to signalment, primary and secondary behavioral diagnoses, physical examination results, hematologic data (CBC and serum biochemical panel), pharmacologic management, and outcome. RESULTS: Overall, trazodone, used as an adjunctive agent in combination with other behavioral drugs, was well tolerated over a wide dose range and enhanced behavioral calming when administered on a daily or as-needed basis. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Although further controlled studies of dose range, efficacy, and safety are needed, trazodone may provide an additional therapeutic option for use in dogs that are unresponsive to conventional treatment.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19072606/