Benzodiazepine Use in Dogs

Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs that help reduce anxiety and fear. They includes drugs such as diazepam (valium), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clonazepam (klonopin) and alprazolam (xanax). Diazepam is commonly used for dogs with problems such as separation anxiety and sudden fears, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

  1. Uses

    • Benzodiazepines help variety of conditions, including the fear of loud noises, such as thunder and fireworks. Sometimes they are used with other medications when a dog is going under anesthesia. Bezondizepines are a sedative, muscle relaxant and used for the treatment of convulsions, according to Pet Place. They can eliminate symptoms such as trembling, pupil dilation, stress panting and tail tucking.

    Dosage

    • Benzodiazepine, specifically diazepam, is usually administered to dogs at a rate of 1/4 to 1 mg per pound. It is also available in a liquid solution administered by rectum for dogs that are convulsing. The dosage for the liquid form is 1/2 mg per pound. The duration of treatment depends upon the condition, the dog's response to it and any adverse reactions, according to Pet Place.

    Side Effects

    • Side effects of this medication include disorientation, weakness and lack of coordination, according to Pet Place. Benzodiazepines should not be given to dogs that have an allergy or sensitivity to the drug. It may also interact with other medications such as cimetidine, narcotics, digoxin, barbiturates, propranolol and some antibiotics. The ASPCA indicates that benzodiazepines also can result in sleeplessness, increased appetite and in some cases, increased anxiety.

    Canine Epilepsy

    • Dogs that have cluster seizures are treated with rectal diazepam, according to Canine Epilepsy. Isolated seizures usually stop after one to three minutes. Cluster seizures occur repetitively over a short period time and can progress to status epilepticus, a continuous seizure that lasts five minutes or more. Rectal diazepam is an effective method for home treatment of cluster seizures. It is administered through a syringe into the dog's rectum at the onset of the seizure.

    Precautions

    • Benzodiazepines are not recommended for long-term use, according to Pet Place. They are metabolized in the liver and eliminated through your dog's kidneys. The Food and Drug Administration have not approved the use of Diazepam in animals, but your veterinarian can legally prescribe it for your dog.

    Considerations

    • The ASPCA recommends behavior modification for the treatment of anxiety conditions to eliminate the need for medication. It suggests seeking the advice of a certified applied animal behaviorist if professional behavior modification assistance is needed.