is alprazolam bad for dogs

Xanax for dogs: Dosage, uses, and alternatives

Xanax can cause adverse reactions, ranging from serious side effects to more manageable ones. Heres what to look out for when giving your dog Xanax.

• Sedation. Benzodiazepine tranquilizers like Xanax have a sedative effect. Dont be surprised if your pup is drowsy.
• Increased hunger. Xanax can be an appetite stimulant, so your dog may seem hungrier than usual.
• Discoordination. Dogs can sometimes have trouble walking when using Xanax. If your dog is a bit wobbly or struggling to walk in a straight line, it may be because of Xanax.
• More troubling behavior changes. In rare cases, a pet will display increased anxiety, aggression, or agitation. These changes are cause for concern, and you should speak with a veterinarian.

Always discuss any drugs or supplements your pup is taking with your vet. Some drugs that may negatively interact with Xanax include:

• Amiodarone
• Antacids
• Antihypertensive agents
• Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
• CNS depressant agents
• Digoxin
• Fluoxetine
• Fluvoxamine
• Hepatic enzyme inducers
• Hepatic enzyme inhibitors
• Ifosfamide
• Lithium
• Nondepolarizing neuromuscular blockers
• Phenytoin
• Rifampin
• Theophylline/aminophylline
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Valproic acid
• Divalproex
• Yohimbine

Overdosing information and symptoms

Too much Xanax can be dangerous to pets. Its essential to follow the dosing guidelines given by your vet and monitor your pet for signs of overdosing. One study of accidental ingestion of Xanax showed symptoms of overdose include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Depression
• Disorientation
• Hyperactivity
• Weakness
• Tremors
• Vocalization
• Diarrhea
• Increased salivation

These symptoms started 10 to 30 minutes after the dog accidentally ingested Xanax.

It can be stressful trying to differentiate a normal side effect from an overdose. When in doubt, call your veterinarian, nearest veterinary emergency hospital, or the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888)- 426-4435.

Risk factors associated with Xanax and pets

Xanax can be addictive and is therefore not recommended for daily use or long-term anxiety treatment for humans or dogs. If used for too long, a dog can experience withdrawal symptoms like irritability and fatigue when they do not take it. Large doses can trigger a drop in blood pressure, limb weakness, and collapse. Xanax is not recommended for pregnant dogs or dogs with liver disease, kidney disease, or glaucoma.

Though Xanax is supposed to help with anxiety, it may have the opposite effect. This side effect is called a paradoxical reaction, and you should speak to your vet about stopping use if your dog exhibits hyper-excitability and other symptoms of increased anxiety.

Keep Xanax in a safe space out of reach of other pets and children. The anti-anxiety medication should only be used for the animal for which it has been prescribed.

Seek immediate attention if an unintended person or animal ingests any of your pets medications.

How Safe Is Alprazolam For Dogs?

Alprazolam for dogs is considered safe when given under the strict supervision of a qualified veterinarian. Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine, or tranquilizer, and is commonly used as an anti-anxiety or anti-seizure medication in dogs. In addition, alprazolam can be pretty effective in calming dogs' anxiety during thunderstorms and in several other stressful conditions that cause canine stress.

What is Alprazolam, and Why is It Given to Dogs?

Also known as Xanax, alprazolam works by altering certain activities in areas of the brain that help produce the wanted outcomes. In addition, alprazolam for dogs helps decrease symptoms of panic attacks that may be present not only during thunderstorms but on the Fourth of July when fireworks are being set off and for separation anxiety.

Although dogs typically get used to their owners coming and going, certain dogs have a challenging time during short periods of separation, especially if they have had traumatic experiences.

What Are Other Uses of Alprazolam?

Occasionally, alprazolam is prescribed to treat painful muscle conditions in dogs, but other, less sedating medications are often tolerated better. These medications include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). In addition, when using this medication, veterinarians must warn owners that the medication might have the opposite effect, causing excitement.

Alprazolam may also be given to dogs to increase appetite, relieve irritable bowel syndrome or spastic colon symptoms, and treat depression. The veterinarian may be able to identify signs of canine depression or refer the dog to an animal behaviorist who can further evaluate the dog and recommend an appropriate course of treatment.

What are the Side Effects of Alprazolam?

When alprazolam for dogs is given, owners should watch for side effects like pronounced sedation, lethargy, and confusion. In addition, persistent thirst, coordination problems, and dry mouth can occur.

Side effects may be more pronounced when the medication is taken with certain antibiotics, beta-blockers, and antacid medications. If the veterinarian is not familiar with the dog, the owner needs to tell him which drugs or dietary supplements the dog is currently receiving.

Like humans, alprazolam for dogs can cause dependence and withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms may include shaking, vomiting, extreme photophobia, or light sensitivity. To avoid dependency, dogs, like humans, should not take alprazolam for extended periods, and the medication should never be abruptly discontinued but tapered off gradually.

In rare cases, giving alprazolam to dogs with anxiety and other problems can lead to liver problems. If the veterinarian suspects liver problems, he may recommend a simple blood test to determine if liver enzymes are elevated. If they are, the dosage may be lowered, or the medication may be discontinued. However, this medication is generally safe and well tolerated, even in most miniature dogs.

How Should Alprazolam Be Administered?

Alprazolam is administered orally as a pill or liquid solution. It can be given with or without meals 30 to 60 minutes before an anticipated triggering event. If vomiting happens when the next dose is taken on an empty stomach, take it with food or a treat. The first time you give this medication to your pet, keep an eye out for any side effects. This medication will take effect fast, within 1 to 2 hours, where clinical symptoms will be seen to improve.

What Are Alprazolam Interactions I Should Be Aware Of?

Alprazolam is a highly reactive drug with several negative interactions with other substances. Use the following medications with caution when administering alprazolam to your dog:

• Amiodarone,
• Antacids,
• Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors,
• Fluoxetine,
• Hepatic enzyme inducers and hepatic enzyme inhibitors,
• Lithium,
• Nondepolarizing neuromuscular blockers,
• Tricyclic antidepressants, and
• Divalproex.

This list is not exhaustive. So, be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications such as vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies your pet takes. If possible, take the medicine container with you to the vet.

What Are Non-Medicinal Alternatives of Alprazolam?

Are you still not sure about giving your pup alprazolam? This decision is best made with the professional guidance of a vet, especially if you try other methods and they do not work. So, here are some things you can consider if you would prefer something milder:

Exercise

Keeping your pet active and stimulated might help combat boredom and keep your dog from misbehaving. Just as in humans, exercise in pets can release feel-good hormones that promote good mental health and a feeling of stability.

This behavior change is beneficial for dogs who suffer from separation anxiety. By keeping them occupied with toys and activities, your pet will have less time to be nervous or destructive, thus helping them maintain a cheerful disposition.

Massage

Massage is a simple yet effective method of calming your dog's anxiety. A gentle massage is enough to release the tension in your dog's muscles, enhance calm, reduce stress, and boost your dog's mood. Loving contact from you will make your pet feel safe and secure since they have formed a bond with you. However, if you think you do not know how to start massaging your pet, you can get a specialist to do it for you and even learn from them.

Dog Calming Chews

Dog-soothing chews containing relaxing substances such as CBD oil, valerian root, and chamomile are also effective anxiety relievers. These herbs may provide comparable soothing effects to alprazolam without undesirable side effects.

However, the research is still inconclusive; the chews may work for some dogs and not others. It would be best if you also spoke with your vet before giving your pet any chews because CBD sometimes interacts poorly with other drugs. Therefore, only use chews if they give you the green light, your dog responds to them, and there are no alternatives.

Distraction During Triggering Events

When one of your dog's anxiety triggers is out of your control, such as loud noises outside, you can try distractions such as games to take their minds off it. Your pet won't become agitated about a stressful situation if you keep their attention on something else.

Many prefer not to give their pets medication for mental health issues before working on external triggers. This decision is valid because adjusting your dog's environment often helps alleviate symptoms and even trigger recovery. However, if symptoms persist, it is safer not to rule out medical intervention.

Mental Health vs. Medication

Just as in humans, many people are torn about what the best treatment for mental issues could be. Many people prefer avoiding drugs, while for others, it's their first option. However, your dog could thrive more with external and internal interventions. Always consult your vet when in doubt.

For more insightful posts about how to give your pet the best life, visit Pettable's blog.

Sedatives for Dogs: How and When to Use Them Safely

By Jennifer Coates, DVM

Canine behavior can be inscrutable at times. Why do some dogs fall apart at the mere mention of going to the v-e-t while others bound through the door without a care in the world? And whats up with nail trims? Does your dog take them in stride or turn in his best Cujo impression? When faced with a dog who is anxious, aggressive, or just plain hyperactive, pet parents often long for a sedative (for their dogs, of course). But is this the right response?

Sedatives can play a role in helping dogs relax, but the drugs are often misused. Lets look at the common types of sedatives that are given to dogs, how they work, and which are best under various circumstances.

Dealing with the Underlying Problem: Anxiety in Dogs

Anxietythat feeling of nervousness, unease, or apprehension that were all familiar withis at the heart of most behavioral problems in dogs. Sometimes anxiety is perfectly normal, but it becomes a problem when it is severe or frequent enough to have an adverse effect on the dogs or owners quality of life. If your dog is anxious, you might notice some combination of the following symptoms:

• Tense muscles
• Trembling
• Panting
• Attempts to escape the situation, which may lead to destructive behavior
• Urination, defecation, release of the anal glands
• Crouching or cowering close to the ground or trying to hide in a safe location
• Wide open eyes, sometimes with the whites showing
• Pulled back ears

What to Do About Anxiety in Dogs

Behavioral modification is the best way to treat anxiety in dogs. These protocols typically involve teaching dogs to remain calm when they are exposed to mild versions of their triggers, rewarding them, and gradually increasing the intensity of their exposure as long as they remain calm.

However, it can sometimes be difficult for dogs to remain calm with even the mildest of triggers. This is when medications and other products to ease anxiety become invaluable. Many over-the-counter options are available for mild anxiety, including:

• nutritional supplements like L-theanine, melatonin, or s-adenosyl-methionine
• synthetic pheromone preparations (e.g., dog appeasing pheromone or DAP)
• body wraps that provide reassuring pressure

For moderate to severe anxiety, veterinarians turn to prescription anti-anxiety medications like alprazolam, amitriptyline, buspirone, clomipramine, dexmedetomidine, diazepam, fluoxetine, lorazepam, paroxetine, sertraline, or trazodone.

Short-Term Dog Sedative Solutions

But what about those cases when a dogs behavior needs to be addressed before anxiety treatments can take affect or when they are not appropriate? What can be done for the hyperactive dog who needs to take it easy after surgery or the dog with a history of aggression who needs X-rays ASAP, for example? This is when a sedative might be a good idea.

Oral Dog Sedatives

Owners who are looking for a sedative to give to their dogs at home are somewhat limited in their choices.

Acepromazine is the most commonly prescribed oral sedative for dogs. It is a member of the phenothiazine class of sedatives and works primarily by blocking dopamine receptors within the brain, thereby depressing certain brain functions. Unfortunately, acepromazine tablets can have wildly variable effects in different individuals. Some dogs may not appear sedated at all while others are laid flat, even when given similar doses of the drug. Additionally, the onset and duration of effect can be inconsistent and hard to predict.

A potentially better option is to squirt the injectable, liquid form of acepromazine between the gums and cheek of the dog. The medication is absorbed through the oral mucous membranes and provides more reliable sedation. Regardless of how oral acepromazine is given, side effects like low blood pressure and seizures in at-risk individuals are possible.

Sometimes a veterinarian will recommend a medication that is traditionally used for other purposes for its sedative side effects. For example, the anti-seizure medications phenobarbital and gabapentin are known to have a profound sedative effect when they are first given to dogs, so they can also be prescribed for use before a potentially stressful event.

Treatment with more than one drug at a time will often improve a dogs response to sedation. Possible oral sedative combinations include:

• acepromazine and Telazol powder (an anesthetic)
• acepromazine and diazepam (an anti-anxiety drug)
• diazepam and butorphanol (an opioid pain reliever)
• phenobarbital and diazepam
• dexmedetomidine (a pain reliever and anti-anxiety medication), ketamine (an anesthetic and pain reliever), and butorphanol. This combination can be absorbed through oral mucous membranes.

Injectable Dog Sedatives

Whenever possible, giving sedatives by injection is preferable to giving them orally because a dogs response tends to be quicker and more predictable. Most of the oral medications that are mentioned above are also available for use by injection. Popular injectable sedatives and injectable sedative combinations for dogs include:

• acepromazine
• acepromazine and butorphanol
• diazepam and butorphanol
• Telazol
• Telazol and butorphanol
• dexmedetomidine (can be reversed with atipamezole)
• dexmedetomidine, ketamine, and butorphanol (can be partially reversed with atipamezole)

Your dogs veterinarian can determine which sedative is best for your dog based on the problem that needs to be addressed and your dogs overall health. Whichever medication is prescribed, make sure to closely follow the dosing instructions that are provided, never give more sedative than is recommended, and talk to your veterinarian about any questions or concerns that you might have.