Escitalopram Oral Suspension (Anhydrous)
Escitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used in veterinary medicine to help manage anxiety-related and compulsive behavioral disorders in dogs and cats. By increasing serotonin levels in the brain, it can promote calmer behavior and improved emotional balance. Use only under veterinary guidance, with dosing tailored to the individual animal’s needs.
How to Give Anhydrous Oral Suspension
Oral Suspension (Anhydrous) is a liquid medication that does not contain water in its base. This might be an oil-based or other special base to help stabilize the medicine. It will look like a regular liquid medication, but often needs a good shake because the drug can settle. Here's how to give it:
- Shake well each time to mix the medication (5-10 seconds).
- Measure the dose using the syringe/dropper provided or one recommended by your vet. Insert the top of the oral syringe into the bottle adapter. Turn the bottle upside down and pull the plunger until the medicine reaches the volume required
- Hold your pet steady: a towel or helper can assist with squirmy pets.
- Administer the dose slowly into the side of the mouth. Allow small pauses if needed for swallowing.
- Raise the head slightly to help the medication go down and clean any spills with a little water or tissue.
- Praise your pet and offer a treat or water (unless advised against feeding right after).
- Clean the syringe with water immediately after use. Store the bottle as directed, out of sunlight.
- Consistency is key: Shake each time, measure accurately, and contact your vet if any issues arise.
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.
Escitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) utilized in veterinary medicine for the management of various behavioral challenges. It is a prescription medication available for use in dogs and cats, requiring a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship before it can be dispensed. It is frequently considered in the context of behavioral health for managing chronic anxiety or compulsive behaviors.
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 include temporary behavioral shifts such as lethargy or restlessness and localized digestive changes like a decrease in appetite or vomiting. Because it manages serotonin concentrations in the brain, your veterinarian will monitor for observational signs of serotonin syndrome, especially if used with other medications. It is typically used with caution in patients with a history of seizures or severe renal or hepatic impairment. Owners should monitor for significant behavioral shifts and contact their veterinarian promptly with concerns.
Yes. Escitalopram is a prescription medication and requires a valid authorization from a licensed veterinarian. Mixlab ensures all legal and professional standards are met before dispensing.
Yes. Mixlab specializes in compounding escitalopram into customized strengths and flavored oral formats, such as flavored liquids or treats, to suit your pet's preferences. The decision rests with your prescribing veterinarian.
Veterinarians discuss escitalopram because it inhibits the reuptake of serotonin in the brain. This provides a method for managing your pet's mood and emotional responses to chronic stress or environmental triggers.
Behavioral shifts with SSRIs typically take several weeks to become apparent. Your veterinarian will provide guidance on the expected timeline and the necessary monitoring schedule for your pet's management plan.
Sudden discontinuation of escitalopram is generally avoided to manage the risk of withdrawal-like signs. Your veterinarian is the right person to provide professional guidance on a proper tapering schedule for your pet.
