Applications of Alprazolam in Dogs and Cats: A Comprehe

Dog and cat behavior disorders are a common reason why owners seek veterinary care. Unacceptable or dangerous animal behaviors are often a leading cause for euthanasia in pets.

Recently, veterinarians have placed more emphasis on pet training and behavior, and experts working in the field of animal behavior are increasingly using medications designed to alter human behavior for pets. Alprazolam is one such medication.

Alprazolam is a mild sedative used to alleviate anxiety in dogs and cats. Chemically, it is classified as a benzodiazepine sedative. This class of drugs also includes Valium and Clorazepate (Tranxene®).

Alprazolam is considered a controlled substance. Therefore, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), as well as similar regulatory agencies in other countries, have strict controls over these medications. These drugs require a prescription from a veterinarian and an appropriate DEA license to obtain. Alprazolam can only be obtained from a veterinarian or prescribed by one.

While the FDA has not approved this drug for use in animals, veterinarians are legally permitted to prescribe it as an additional prescription medication.

Alprazolam Formula

This medication is registered for use only in humans.

Human Formula: Xanax® (Pharmacia and Upjohn) and generic formulations

Veterinary Formula: Not available

Uses of Alprazolam in Cats and Dogs

1. Alprazolam can be used to treat anxiety in cats and dogs.

2. Specific uses include treating thunderstorm phobia and other phobias, separation anxiety, and situational fears (such as car rides and visits to the veterinarian's office).

3. Like other benzodiazepines, alprazolam can be used as a muscle relaxant, anticonvulsant, or appetite stimulant. It may also have some effect on treating irritable bowel syndrome.

Precautions and Side Effects

1. Generally, alprazolam prescribed by a veterinarian is safe and effective, but this medication can also cause side effects in some animals.

2. Alprazolam should not be used in animals known to be allergic to the drug.

3. Animals with myasthenia gravis or glaucoma should avoid taking alprazolam. Caution should be exercised when using alprazolam in animals with liver disease.

4. Alprazolam may interact with other medications. Consult your veterinarian to determine if other medications your pet is taking may interact with alprazolam. These medications include other central nervous system depressants, digoxin, phenytoin, and theophylline.

5. The most common side effects are sedation and loss of motor control, but these only occur with high doses.

6. In some animals, alprazolam may cause unusual reactions, such as hyperactivity or aggression.

7. Longterm use of alprazolam can lead to physical dependence. If the medication is suddenly discontinued, it may cause changes in behavior.

Alprazolam Specifications

1. Alprazolam tablets are available in strengths of 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg.

2. Solutions containing 0.5 mg or 1 mg per milliliter are also available.

Alprazolam Dosage and Administration

1. Before administering alprazolam, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian.

2. The typical dosage range for alprazolam in dogs is 0.01 to 0.05 mg per pound of body weight, administered orally once daily.

3. In cats, the dosage is 0.125 to 0.25 mg per cat, given twice daily as needed.

4. The duration of treatment depends on the response to the medication and the veterinarian's recommendations.