Toxic to dogs · Medications

Is Effexor toxic to dogs?

High severity No safe amount — No amount is considered safe.

Yes. Exposure can cause serious illness and needs prompt veterinary attention.

Symptoms to watch for

  • sedation
  • central nervous system stimulation
  • anorexia
  • lethargy
  • vomiting
  • tremoring
  • seizures
  • hyperthermia
  • diarrhea
  • abdominal pain
  • dilated pupils
  • stumbling gait
  • rapid heart rate
  • drooling

How vets treat it

Immediate veterinary attention is required for decontamination, sedation, thermoregulation, IV fluid therapy, blood pressure and ECG monitoring, and supportive care.

Why it's dangerous

These medications inhibit the re-uptake of serotonin and/or norepinephrine in the central nervous system, which can lead to excessive levels and potentially cause serotonin syndrome.

Toxic compound: venlafaxine

Good to know

Even therapeutic doses can result in moderate to severe clinical signs; rapid onset of symptoms makes professional decontamination critical.

Sources

This page is informational and is not veterinary advice. If your pet has been exposed to something risky, contact your vet or an animal poison control line right away.

More substances toxic to dogs

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