Trazodone HCL Tablets

Trazodone is a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI) that is used to relieve anxiety in dogs and cats prior to stressful events, including veterinary visits, travel, and hospitalization. This medication may also be prescribed to help treat anxiety or fear-based behavior disorders.

While this medication does not have an FDA-approved indication for animal use, it is a common and acceptable practice for veterinarians to prescribe this human medication for use in animals.

Medications can play a significant role in comprehensive behavior modification therapy. Please follow your pet’s individual treatment plan, which may include a combination of medications and behavioral modification strategies, as recommended by your veterinarian or animal behaviorist.

*Please note: this is a generic medication. Product packaging and appearance, including size, color, and shape, may differ from the description or images provided and are subject to manufacturer availability.

Dogs, Cats, and Horses

Trazodone hydrochloride

Desyrel®

Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor

This product is available in multiple strengths and sizes; please select the appropriate option for your pet as recommended by your veterinarian.

For current availability, please refer to the product selection above.

Trazodone should be given orally as directed by your veterinarian.

Do not discontinue this medication abruptly, especially if your pet has been using it consistently on a regular (daily) basis. Please consult your veterinarian before making any changes or discontinuing the prescribed dosing schedule.

This medication can be given with or without food. If your pet vomits or appears unwell after receiving a dose on an empty stomach, give future doses with food or a small treat. If vomiting continues, contact your veterinarian.

Administer 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 two doses at once.

Store in a cool, dry place at a controlled room temperature (68 to 77°F, excursions permitted between 59 and 86°F). Keep in a tight, light-resistant container and out of the reach of children and pets. Store away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not store this medication in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

Trazodone is typically well tolerated. Common side effects may include (but are not limited to): stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and sedation. In some cases, increased heart rate and behavior changes (e.g., nervousness, aggression) have been reported.

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet experiences severe behavior changes, shivering, or shaking.

Your veterinarian may advise a lower initial dose and gradually increase over time to help find an appropriate dosage and avoid these effects.

Notify your veterinarian if your pet experiences any of the effects described above, or if you notice any other side effects that are persistent or troublesome.

If you notice anything unusual, please consult your veterinarian.

If your pet is using this medication regularly, please consult your veterinarian before making any changes to the prescribed dosing schedule or discontinuing the medication abruptly.

This medication may not be compatible with certain flea and tick collars; do not use one of these collars concurrently with this medication without consulting your veterinarian first.

Use with caution in animals with a history of cardiac arrhythmias, heart disease, or severe kidney or liver issues. Safe use of this medication has not been established in breeding, pregnant, or lactating animals.

Do not administer to animals with a known history or suspected allergy/hypersensitivity to this medication or any of its ingredients. Allergic reactions to medications may occur. Be sure to inform Vetsource and your veterinarian if your pet has any known drug sensitivities or allergies.

If your pet displays symptoms of an allergic reaction, discontinue therapy and call your veterinarian immediately or seek emergency veterinary attention. Symptoms may include (but are not limited to): swollen lips, tongue, face, or airways, difficulty breathing, agitation, profuse salivation, and widespread hives or itching.

The following drugs* may have potential interactions with this medication: amitriptyline, aspirin, blood pressure medications (amlodipine, enalapril, telmisartan, etc), clomipramine, clopidogrel, CNS depressant drugs (acepromazine, hydroxyzine, opioids, etc), diuretics, mirtazapine, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs, e.g., selegiline, amitraz, etc), and phenobarbital.

*NOTE: this may not be a comprehensive list. Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

Please ensure your veterinarian is aware of all medications and supplements that your pet is currently receiving. Your veterinarian may prescribe multiple medications, even if a potential drug interaction may occur. In these instances, your veterinarian may adjust the dosages or monitor your pet more closely.

If you are concerned that your pet has experienced an adverse reaction to this medication, please contact Vetsource Pet Owner Care at 877-738-4443.