Paroxetine and Pets
Find out if Paroxetine is toxic to dogs and cats.
Think your pet ate something toxic?
Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 or view emergency guide
Paroxetine (Paxil) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) prescribed to humans for depression, anxiety, and related disorders. In dogs and cats, even small amounts can cause serious poisoning, including serotonin syndrome. Because it has a shorter half-life than some other SSRIs, abrupt discontinuation in animals that have been exposed repeatedly may also trigger withdrawal signs. Never give your pet a human antidepressant unless specifically directed by a veterinarian.
Pets most often ingest paroxetine by chewing pill bottles, eating dropped tablets, or being given a dose intended for a person. Controlled-release and long-acting formulations can be especially dangerous because the medication is released over time and may cause prolonged signs. Symptoms can develop within one to two hours and may include vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, agitation, tremors, seizures, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, fever, and dilated pupils.
If you suspect your pet has swallowed paroxetine, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control center immediately and bring the medication packaging. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional. Keep all human medications in a secure cabinet, out of reach and sight, and never leave pills on nightstands or counters where curious pets can reach them.
Is Paroxetine Toxic to Dogs?
Even small doses of paroxetine can cause serious toxicity in dogs, including serotonin syndrome, agitation, tremors, seizures, and cardiovascular effects.
Is Paroxetine Toxic to Cats?
Cats are very sensitive to paroxetine; ingestion can lead to severe serotonin syndrome, hyperthermia, seizures, and potentially life-threatening effects.
Active Ingredients
- paroxetine hydrochloride
Common Brand Names
- Paxil
- Paxil CR
- Pexeva
- Brisdelle
Dosage Form
tabletcapsuleoral suspensioncontrolled-release tablet
Common Uses
- major depressive disorder
- generalized anxiety disorder
- obsessive-compulsive disorder
- panic disorder
- post-traumatic stress disorder
- premenstrual dysphoric disorder
- menopausal hot flashes
Toxic Ingredients
- paroxetine hydrochloride
Symptoms to Watch For
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- agitation
- restlessness
- tremors
- seizures
- hyperthermia
- tachycardia
- hypertension
- mydriasis
- vocalization
- serotonin syndrome
What If My Pet Was Exposed to Paroxetine?
Contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control center immediately. Bring the medication bottle and do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional. Seek emergency veterinary care.
Sources
Vet's Note
PetPilot provides general information for educational purposes. While we reference authoritative veterinary organizations, this page has not been individually reviewed by a veterinarian for your specific pet. Individual animals may react differently based on age, weight, breed, health conditions, and amount consumed. Always consult your veterinarian or a poison control center for personalized advice, especially if your pet is ill, injured, pregnant, nursing, or on medication.