ExoticRx · exoticrx.com/drugs/paroxetine
US brand names:Paxil
Paroxetine is dosed at 1–4 mg/kg PO q12-24h in african grey parrots, per 221. Desmarchelier MR. Clinical psychopharmacology for the exotic animal practitioner. Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract. 2021;24:17-35. — Source: Carpenter's Exotic Animal Formulary, 6th Ed, p.473 — Carpenter's Exotic Animal Formulary 6th ed, Table 5.10 (Psychotropic and Antiepileptic Agents Used in Birds.a,b). Verify against current literature before clinical use.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Also has mild anticholinergic activity contributing to anxiolytic effects.
Used for anxiety disorders, aggression, and compulsive behaviors. 4-6 weeks for full effect. Serotonin syndrome risk. GI upset initially. Do not combine with MAO inhibitors.
Species references:All African Grey Parrot drugsAll Blue-and-Gold Macaw drugsAll Cat (Domestic) drugsAll Dog (Domestic) drugs
Each ExoticRx dose rule is graded by the strength of its primary evidence — see the editorial process.
A dog/cat sample is shown here. Cited dosing for all 4 species — reptiles, birds, pocket pets, livestock, and equine — is free on the per-species pages above. Pro adds the weight-based calculator for every species.
| Species | Route | Dose | Frequency | Evidence | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dog (Domestic) | PO | 0.5–2 mg/kg | q24h | Moderate | Plumb's 10th ed printed p.989, Paroxetine monograph spanning p.988-989.Compilation only — we have not located an independent source that prints this figure. |
| Cat (Domestic) | PO | 0.5–1 mg/kg | q24h | Moderate | Plumb's 10th ed printed p.988, Paroxetine monograph spanning p.988-989.Compilation only — we have not located an independent source that prints this figure. |
Upgrade to Pro or Student to unlock the full dose ranges and frequency for every species. The drug's mechanism, warnings, indications, and cited sources are free to read.
View PlansSource citations and evidence levels available on the live page. Reference only — verify against current literature before clinical use.