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Use of psychoactive medications in dogs and cats for anxiety, aggression, etc.

This article discusses the use of psychoactive medications for treatment of anxiety, aggression and other behavioral issues in canines and felines. After environmental and behavior management has been attempted, the use of medication may be necessary but the benefits and precautions should be thoroughly evaluated before prescribing. It provides suggested doses for many drugs and discusses potential adverse reactions associated with use.

The FDA has approved two medications for the use in Veterinary Medicine, Selegiline (Anipryl ® ) for canine cognitive dysfunction and Clomipramine (Clomicalm ® ) for canine separation anxiety. The Animal Medicinal Drug Use Clarification Act of 1994 requires a Veterinarian to thoroughly examine an animal and a make a diagnosis recommending drug therapy. It is illegal for trainers or unlicensed persons to dispense or prescribe medication for behavior modification.

Fear and anxiety are at the core of many behavioral problems in our pets. Aggression may be subdued with medication but no drug can guarantee to completely stop the behavior. Selegiline may slow the progression of cognitive dysfunction but cannot reverse the inevitable decline, similar to Alzheimer's disease in human beings.

Benzodiazepines have a rapid onset and can be helpful with extremely anxious patients. Possible adverse effects include sedation, ataxia, muscle relaxation, paradoxical excitation and increased appetite. Oxazepam has no active metabolites which probably makes it a safer drug of choice in geriatric patients or animals with underlying hepatic issues. This medication has also been shown to help pets with storm phobia.

The prolonged use of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI's) can decrease reactivity, aggression, fear or compulsive behaviors. Adverse effects are uncommon but may include mild sedation, decreased appetite and changes in GI function.

SSRI's may also alter blood glucose therefore should be used with caution in diabetic animals.

Buspirone is a serotonin 1A agonist and is primarily used to treat inappropriate urination in cats. Most recently it has been used in dogs with anxiety related problems. Adverse effects are rare but occasionally paradoxical anxiety is seen.

Tricyclic antidepressants inhibit the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine which can decrease reactivity, aggression and fear. Clomipramine also has antihistaminic and anticholinergic effects. Adverse reactions include sedation, GI changes, urinary retention, changes in appetite and ataxia.

Selegiline is a monoamine oxidase B inhibitor which has been successfully used in elderly dogs with cognitive problems. It should not be used in combination with any SSRI's, tricyclic antidepressants, or buspirone.

Acepromazine, an antipsychotic drug, does not have true anxiolytic effects and is generally not recommended for anxiety.

Trial and error is common when beginning an animal on any psychoactive medication. Each patient's history and response to medication will differ. A thorough knowledge of the medication's safety profile, side effects and drug interactions should be researched before initiating therapy. It is important to remember that medication should be used in conjunction with behavior therapy and training.