ExoticRx · exoticrx.com/drugs/trazodone
US brand names:Desyrel
Trazodone is dosed at 2–5 mg/kg PO q8-12h as needed in dogs, per Neilson J. Drug therapy for behavioral problems. Presented at: Western Veterinary Conference; 2010. PMID: 40252524 — Plumb's 10th ed printed p.1266, Trazodone monograph spanning p.1266-1268. — CEILING: Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, Trazodone monograph, printed p.1268 — "The maximum recommendation is 300 mg/dose.". Verify against current literature before clinical use.
Antagonizes 5-HT2A receptors and inhibits serotonin reuptake. Produces sedation and anxiolysis at lower doses than antidepressant effect.
Commonly used for event-based anxiety and post-surgical confinement in dogs. Sedation is primary effect. Serotonin syndrome risk with other serotonergic drugs. Priapism reported (rare). GI upset.
Species references:All Cat (Domestic) drugsAll Dog (Domestic) drugs
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| Species | Route | Dose | Frequency | Evidence | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dog (Domestic) | PO | 2–5 mg/kg | q8-12h as needed | Strong | Neilson J. Drug therapy for behavioral problems. Presented at: Western Veterinary Conference; 2010. PMID: 40252524 — Plumb's 10th ed printed p.1266, Trazodone monograph spanning p.1266-1268. — CEILING: Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, Trazodone monograph, printed p.1268 — "The maximum recommendation is 300 mg/dose." |
| Cat (Domestic) | PO | 50–100 mg per cat | q24h as needed | Moderate | Papich/Saunders Handbook of Veterinary Drugs, 4th Ed, p.806Compilation only — we have not located an independent source that prints this figure. |
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View PlansSource citations and evidence levels available on the live page. Reference only — verify against current literature before clinical use.