How long does trazodone last in dogs?

In this article:

• How long does trazodone take to work in dogs?
• Can you give a dog too much trazodone?
• How and when to stop giving your dog trazodone

In this article

• How long does trazodone take to work in dogs?
• Can you give a dog too much trazodone?
• How and when to stop giving your dog trazodone

Trazodone, an FDA-approved human medicine used to reduce the symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression in people, is available as “extra-label” or off-label use through veterinary medicine for the treatment of pets. With minimal potential side effects, trazodone could be a good choice for short-term or long-term management of anxiety in dogs.

Dr. Ray Spragley DVM CVA CCRT, a veterinarian at Zen Dog Veterinarian Care states, “Trazodone is a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). This means it will increase levels of serotonin in a dog’s brain to combat anxiety and make them more relaxed. Since trazodone is a very safe medication, it has a large range of doses that can be given.“ A dose of trazodone for dogs generally lasts about 6 to 12 hours. Spragley continues to say, “For most dogs, it will make them more subdued and a bit tired.”

How long does trazodone take to work in dogs?

Trazodone for dogs begins to work 30-120 minutes after ingestion by mouth. Trazodone is absorbed faster when given on an empty stomach, but your vet may recommend giving it with a small meal because it is more fully absorbed when given with food.

How long will trazodone last in dogs?

The duration of trazodone in a dog’s system can change based on several variants. Some factors include:

• Size and weight of dog
• Age
• Health conditions/pre-existing conditions.
• Dosage
• Frequency of use
• Metabolism

Specific situations such as car rides, veterinary visits, and loud noises like thunderstorms or fireworks, could be causes for giving anti-anxiety medication to dogs. To help reduce stress and behavioral issues associated with fear, trazodone could be provided on an as-needed basis or long-term. If a low dose of trazodone is taken daily, the medication may take several weeks before the dog fully acclimates to the medicine. 

When is the peak time for trazodone for dogs?

It is useful to know about a medication’s peak level and half-life, especially if the medication is needed for situational anxiety, preparation for surgery, or other time-sensitive matters.

When a medication is at its peak, the drug is at its highest level or maximum effect on the dog/patient. Peak levels can vary from dog to dog, depending on the pet’s metabolism rate, weight, hydration level, and age. Food can also slow down the absorption of the medication. 

The medication’s half-life represents the time needed for half or 50% of the medication to be eliminated from the body. Dr. Sabrina Kong DVM, and contributor to welovedoodles.com explains, “Generally, trazodone has a half-life of approximately 3 to 6 hours in dogs, which means the medication’s concentration in the blood is reduced by half during this time.” For example, the half-life of trazodone is approximately 4 hours, and 50% of the drug has been used up by the body after 4 hours. Another half will reduce this amount after an additional 4 hours until the medication is completely removed from the dog’s system. Kong further notes, “The medication can last up to 24 hours, depending on the individual dog and the dose administered.”

Trazodone is a short-acting medication; your veterinarian will tell you the appropriate amount and time to administer anxiety medications in preparation for surgery or other uses. Because of its sedative effects, this medication is often used post-surgery during the recovery period as well. When used for anxiety-related disorders or behavioral disorders, it is best to give trazodone 1 to 2 hours before a stressful event, such as vet visits or fireworks. Doing so allows the medicine to be fully effective when the dog needs it the most. 

How long does it take for trazodone to wear off in dogs?

Trazodone works as a short-acting drug and typically wears off within 6 to 12 hours after it is given for situational anxiety. Short-term use of trazodone should be completely out of the system within 24 hours, but it may take longer if used for long-term management of anxiety. Weight, age, and the general health of the pet can also be taken into consideration when assessing how long a trazodone dosage wears off. 

Can you give a dog too much trazodone?

Trazodone comes in scored tablets of 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, and 300 mg. Pills can be split in half to allow for various doses, especially for small dogs or dogs with severe anxiety that may need multiple doses throughout the day. In addition, trazodone hydrochloride (HCL) is available compounded in liquid form, specially formulated for dogs. 

A dog can consume too much trazodone and overdose. An overdose of trazodone could lead to excessive serotonin levels, also known as serotonin syndrome. Signs of serotonin syndrome may include:

• Restlessness
• Disorientation
• Agitation
• Pacing
• Increased heart rate
• In some cases, seizures can occur. 

The most common side effects of trazodone in dogs include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Lack of coordination
• Lethargy
• Sedation. 

In addition, dogs may experience increased appetite, excess saliva, panting, and dilated pupils as a response to trazodone medication. Look for signs of overdose and seek medical advice if the trazodone side effects seem extreme. Your veterinarian may suggest a lower dose or alternative medication.

Trazodone for dogs is the same as for human use, but only give your dog trazodone under a veterinarian’s instructions. Elderly dogs may have an increased risk of adverse effects. Too much trazodone could cause liver damage. Dogs that have kidney disease, liver disease, or heart disease may not be recommended to take trazodone. Owners of dogs should convey all medical history, including other medications the dog is taking, to the veterinarian to avoid negative side effects. If your dog becomes pregnant, seek medical advice from your vet as trazodone could have adverse effects on the developing puppies.

How and when to stop giving your dog trazodone

When trazodone is used in dogs for surgical recovery or situational anxiety, trazodone can be discontinued after the short-term event is over. In the case of trazodone for dogs as a long-term anxiety medication, do not abruptly discontinue the medication without direction from the pet’s doctor. Dogs on daily trazodone should have the medication slowly tapered before discontinuing.

In some cases, such as an allergic reaction, suspected overdose, or immediate health concerns, your veterinarian may recommend immediate termination of trazodone. Withdrawal symptoms such as a spike in anxiety symptoms, trouble sleeping, and agitation could occur if medication is not tapered.

Dr. Sabrina Kong DVM further suggests, “The best approach to weaning off trazodone involves gradually reducing the dose over time, allowing the dog’s body to adjust without causing undue stress. The specific weaning schedule will depend on the dog’s individual response to the medication, how long they have been taking it, and their overall health status.” Consult your medical provider and follow the vet’s instructions to discontinue the use of trazodone safely.

In addition to prescription medication, natural products and holistic practices such as additional exercise or training sessions could play an important role in reducing behavioral issues associated with stress. Homeopathic remedies such as chamomile, lavender, or melatonin could also help ease an anxious canine. A combination of treatments is often recommended to reduce pet anxiety.