Comparing the effectiveness of clomipramine and fluoxetine in dogs with anxiety-related behaviours

Abstract

PICO Question In dogs with anxious behaviours, is fluoxetine more effective than clomipramine in reducing anxiety-related behaviours? Clinical bottom line Category of research Treatment. Number and type of study designs reviewed Three controlled studies were critically appraised. Strength of evidence Moderate. Outcomes reported Administration of either fluoxetine or clomipramine to adult dogs reduces symptoms of fear and anxiety. Conclusion Both fluoxetine and clomipramine are effective in reducing acral lick dermatitis and tail chasing behaviours, but there is no evidence that one drug is more effective than the other. How to apply this evidence in practice The application of evidence into practice should take into account multiple factors, not limited to: individual clinical expertise, patient’s circumstances and owners’ values, country, location or clinic where you work, the individual case in front of you, the availability of therapies and resources. Knowledge Summaries are a resource to help reinforce or inform decision making. They do not override the responsibility or judgement of the practitioner to do what is best for the animal in their care.

Keywords

• acral lick dermatitis
• anxiety
• anxiolytic
• behavioural disorder
• canine
• clomipramine
• dog;
• fluoxetine
• obsessive compulsive behaviour
• stereotypic behaviour
• tail chasing