It is important to use the medication we are prescribing for your pet. If you have concerns about anything you find on here, please contact our office at 518-446-9171 before stopping the medication.
What is Alprazolam?
Alprazolam is an oral benzodiazepine tranquilizer used in dogs and cats for the treatment of various behavior disorders, especially anxiety problems. It is also used as a sedative, helps suppress seizure activity, and is useful as a muscle relaxant. The best results are achieved with most behavior drugs by simultaneous use of behavior modification training. Alprazolam is available in 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg tablets.
Alprazolam is a controlled drug. You will need a new prescription every 6 months. Your veterinarian must keep special records of its use.
How is Alprazolam given?
Alprazolam is given orally.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you can. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to the normal schedule. Do not give two doses at the same time.
Are there any potential side effects?
• Sedation, and drowsiness when first given
• Rarely, dogs have experienced excitation instead of sedation
• Possible liver failure in cats. Liver enzymes should be monitored before and during therapy.
• Some anti-anxiety medications used on aggressive animals may stimulate aggressive behavior. Always
supervise a test dose to ensure your pet is not over-tranquilized or aggressive.
• Cats: behavior changes (irritability, increased affection, depression)
• Discontinuing Alprazolam abruptly may lead to unpleasant withdrawal symptoms
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
• Use with caution in pets with liver or kidney disease
• Use with caution in older, debilitated animals, or those with certain types of glaucoma
• Use with caution in working dogs (military/police/seeing eye/hearing, etc.) as too much sedation may impede their ability to work and learn
• Do not administer to pregnant and nursing animals
• Pets are known to have had an allergic reaction to Alprazolam or other benzodiazepine medications (e.g. Valium)
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
• Amiodarone, azithromycin, cimetidine, clarithromycin, cyclosporine, erythromycin, isoniazid, propoxyphene, propranolol, and valproic acid may reduce or delay alprazolam metabolism if co-administered, resulting in increased serum alprazolam concentrations and enhanced sedative effects
• Co-administration of alprazolam with azole antifungals may result in increased plasma concentrations and/or prolonged half-life of alprazolam
• Co-administration of other CNS depressants can result in additive CNS depressant effects
• Alprazolam is contraindicated in patients receiving concomitant therapy with potent CYP3A inhibitors such as ketoconazole
• Alprazolam can decrease metabolism of digoxin which may increase risk of toxicosis
• Alprazolam may reduce thyroidal uptake of I-123 or I-131
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) your pet takes.
Is there any monitoring that needs to be done with this medication?
Depending on your pet’s medication condition and other drugs being administered, monitoring of CBC, biochemistry profile, urinalysis, and bile acids every 6 months may be recommended.
How do I store Alprazolam?
Alprazolam should be stored at room temperature and protected from light.
What should I do in case of an emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions to contact an emergency facility.