Fluoxetine

Why has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?

Fluoxetine is used to treat a variety of behavioral disorders in cats.   It may be used to correct aggressive behavior, thunderstorm phobias and excessive licking and hair pulling.  Fluoxetine HCl is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressant.

How do I give this medication?

"DO NOT stop giving this medication to your pet unless directed by your veterinarian."

• Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
• Try to give this medication at about the same time each day.
• DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed and do not give more often than directed.
• DO NOT stop giving this medication to your pet unless directed by your veterinarian. Your pet will need to be weaned off the medication by slowly decreasing the dose over time.
• If your pet needs a refill of this medication, call your veterinarian several days ahead of time to ensure that you will not run out of medication.
• Try not to miss giving any doses.
• This medication may be given with or without food. If given with food, stomach upset may be prevented.

What if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

• Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
• Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
• Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in other damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

What are the potential side effects?

• The most noted side effects include drowsiness, decrease in appetite, stomach upset, anxiety, trouble sleeping, hyperactivity, panting and irritability. If these symptoms persist, contact your veterinarian.
• The most common side effect is a decrease in appetite, which usually resolves on its own. If your pet persistently doesn't eat, contact your veterinarian.
• Notify your veterinarian if any symptoms are troublesome and continue.
• Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Are there any possible drug interactions?

• Make sure to tell your veterinarian if you are giving your pet any other medication or supplements.
• Quite often, your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and sometimes a drug interaction may be anticipated. If this occurs, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
• The following drugs can potentially interact with fluoxetine: warfarin, phenylbutazone, digitoxin, diazepam, haloperidol, lithium, l-tryptophan, tricyclic antidepressants, buspirone, thioridazine, perphenazine, cimetidine, propafenone, flecainide, encainide, monoamine oxidase inhibitors - i.e. selegiline, l-deprenyl, isoniazid, Mitaban dip.
• Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.