Background
Xanax or alprazolam, like its more famous cousin diazepam (Valium), is a benzodiazepine tranquilizer. It works by depressing activity in a number of areas of the brain, which leads to several desired effects. It works as an anti-anxiety treatment, as a sedative, as a suppressor of seizure activity, and as a muscle relaxer. The exact mechanism for creating these effects remains unknown. Alprazolam represents an improvement on the original diazepam in that it lasts longer and is much less likely to cause liver damage, making it more practical than diazepam for oral use.
How this Medication is Used
Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety disorders in cats, and can be used in cases of short or long-term stress such as visits from the vet or adjusting to a new environment.
Alprazolam seems to exert its maximum effect within 1 to 2 hours and we recommend you give it 30-60 minutes before anticipated stressful events. It may be given with or without food.
Side Effects
- Sedation is a possible side effect
- Benzodiazepines can cause an increase in hunger.
Interactions with Other Drugs
- Alprazolam may have a stronger than expected effect if used in conjunction with cimetidine, itraconazole, other anxiety medications or propranolol
- Antacids may slow the onset of effect of alprazolam.
Concerns and Cautions
- This medication should be stored at room temperature and protected from light.
- Liver disease can prolong the activity of alprazolam. Alprazolam should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney insufficiency.
- There is a risk of using anti-anxiety medications such as this in aggressive animals as a phenomenon called “disinhibition” may be observed. What this means is that the medication may remove whatever inhibitions the animal had to suppress aggression and the situation can be aggravated now that the patient is no longer inhibited. DO NOT ADMINISTER A PET’S FIRST-EVER DOSE OF ALPRAZOLAM AND THEN LEAVE HIM UNSUPERVISED. ALWAYS SUPERVISE A TEST DOSE TO BE SURE PETS ARE NOT OVER-TRANQUILIZED OR AGGRESSIVE WITH ONE ANOTHER.
- Discontinuing alprazolam abruptly after long-term use may lead to unpleasant withdrawal symptoms similar to those that occur in humans.
- Alprazolam should not be used in early pregnancy; birth defects have been reported.
- Alprazolam also crosses readily into the milk of nursing mothers and may tranquilize nursing young. Alprazolam should thus not be used in nursing mothers.
Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you have any concerns about giving your cat alprazolam.