Citalopram Tablet
Citalopram is a compounded formulation containing Citalopram, prepared by Mixlab for veterinary use. Available by prescription.
The uses and pharmacology described below reflect the FDA-approved labeling for this active ingredient; your veterinarian determines whether and how they apply to your animal's treatment plan.
Veterinarians most commonly consider citalopram for patients presented with chronic anxiety, separation distress or noise aversion. It is frequently a point of discussion for managing canine and feline patients where behavioral modification alone has not reached the desired clinical goals. By modulating specific chemical messengers in the brain, your veterinarian can manage the pet’s reactive state and facilitate a more receptive environment for training. At a pharmacological level, citalopram acts as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It functions by blocking the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin into the presynaptic neuron, increasing the concentration of serotonin in the synaptic cleft. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter associated with the regulation of mood, sleep and emotional response. Unlike older tricyclic antidepressants, citalopram is characterized by its high selectivity for serotonin receptors, providing a mechanism for managing emotional health with minimal influence on other neurotransmitter systems. Your veterinarian will determine the clinical appropriateness of citalopram based on your pet’s behavioral history and health status.
Prescription only. Use only under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. This information is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, prescribing or monitoring. Compounded drugs are not approved by the FDA for safety or effectiveness.
Commonly observed effects following the administration of citalopram include localized digestive changes such as vomiting or a decrease in appetite. Some animals may exhibit behavioral shifts including sedation, agitation or changes in sleep patterns. Because citalopram influences serotonin levels, your veterinarian will monitor for signs of serotonin syndrome, especially if used in combination with other medications. Owners should watch for signs of tremors, shivering or unusual restlessness and contact their veterinarian promptly with any concerns. This medication is typically used with extra caution or avoided in patients with known severe hepatic or renal impairment, as these organs are involved in the metabolism and excretion of the medication. It is also carefully evaluated in pets with a history of seizures. Significant interactions can occur if citalopram is administered concurrently with MAOIs, tramadol or other serotonergic agents. It is important to never discontinue this medication abruptly; your veterinarian is the right person to provide guidance on the necessary duration of use and the proper tapering schedule to ensure the management approach remains suitable for your pet's needs.
Yes. Citalopram is a prescription medication and can only be dispensed by a licensed pharmacy upon receipt of a valid authorization from a licensed veterinarian. Mixlab verifies all veterinarian-client-patient relationships before any medication is prepared or shipped.
Yes. While citalopram is available in commercial tablet formats, Mixlab specializes in compounding the active ingredient into customized strengths and flavored dosage forms—such as flavored oral liquids or smaller capsules—to suit the specific needs of dogs and cats. The decision between a commercial and compounded product rests with the prescribing veterinarian.
Veterinarians often discuss that it can take several weeks of consistent administration before the full physiological influence of citalopram is observed. Your veterinarian will provide guidance on what to expect during the initial weeks of the management approach.
Citalopram is considered by veterinarians in the context of anxiety and reactive behavioral states, rather than as a tool to alter your pet's fundamental personality. Your veterinarian may discuss this medication in the context of supporting conditions that allow behavioral training to be more accessible for your pet.
