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Fluvoxamine

Prescription

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)

Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team

Species

Dog, Cat

Brands

1 available

Interactions

3 documented

Formulations

Mechanism of action

Selectively inhibits serotonin (5-HT) reuptake at the presynaptic neuron, increasing serotonergic neurotransmission. Also has sigma-1 receptor agonist activity (neuroprotective). No significant activity at norepinephrine, dopamine, or histamine receptors.

At a glance

Class

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)

Schedule

Prescription

Storage

Store at room temperature below 30°C, protect from moisture

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for compulsive disorders (acral lick dermatitis, tail chasing), anxiety, an

Dose

1–2 mg/kg

Route

Frequency

q12–24h

🐈

Cat

Used for urine spraying, compulsive grooming (psychogenic alopecia), and anxiety

Dose

0.5–1 mg/kg

Route

Frequency

q24h

Educational reference only

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength

—

Strength

—

Storage

Store at room temperature below 30°C, protect from moisture

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Behavioral response at 4–8 weeksGI toleranceSeizure activityDrug interaction review

Educational reference only

Interactions

Contraindicated — 1

Selegiline (L-Deprenyl)

contraindicated

SSRI + MAO inhibitor: serotonin syndrome — potentially fatal.

Management: NEVER combine. Allow 2-week washout of either before starting the other.

Major — 2

Aminophylline

major

Fluvoxamine is the most potent SSRI inhibitor of CYP1A2, which metabolizes theophylline. Increases theophylline levels 3-fold, causing seizures and cardiac arrhythmias.

Management: NEVER combine. If SSRI needed with theophylline/aminophylline, use sertraline (minimal CYP1A2 effect).

Tramadol

major

Both serotonergic. Fluvoxamine also inhibits CYP1A2 and CYP2D6, altering tramadol metabolism.

Management: Avoid. Use non-serotonergic analgesic.

Educational reference only

Brands

Other markets

Luvox

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Fluvoxamine?

Fluvoxamine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (ssri) used in pets. Selectively inhibits serotonin (5-HT) reuptake at the presynaptic neuron, increasing serotonergic neurotransmission. Also has sigma-1 receptor agonist activity (neuroprotective). No significant activity at norepinephrine, dopamine, or histamine receptors.

›What is Fluvoxamine used for in pets?

Fluvoxamine is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for compulsive disorders (acral lick dermatitis, tail chasing), anxiety, an; Used for urine spraying, compulsive grooming (psychogenic alopecia), and anxiety.

›What is the Fluvoxamine dose for dogs?

For dogs, Fluvoxamine is typically dosed as follows — Used for compulsive disorders (acral lick dermatitis, tail chasing), anxiety, an: 1–2 mg/kg PO q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›What is the Fluvoxamine dose for cats?

For cats, Fluvoxamine is typically dosed as follows — Used for urine spraying, compulsive grooming (psychogenic alopecia), and anxiety: 0.5–1 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›Does Fluvoxamine need a prescription?

Yes. Fluvoxamine is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

Educational reference only