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BPO Medical Forum => Medical Conditions & Diseases => : SAR Diver May 19, 2009, 08:16:27 AM

: Thunderstorms - Alprazolam (Xanex) - and Razor
: SAR Diver May 19, 2009, 08:16:27 AM
I have discussed this with Kathryn and she suggested I put this out there for everyone to see.  Mostly as a warning and something to be aware of if your vet recommends this drug to you.  I am not saying it doesn't work, because it does, but there are some possible side effects that you should be aware of.

Some of you may be familiar with my Belian Malinois Razor and his severe thunder phobia.  For those that are not familiar with him, let me say that he will literally chew threw the wall to get to people in the event of a thunderstorm (Kathryn will back me on this).  I have tried a number of different medications and remedies, and the latest try was with a drug called Alprazolam (Xanex).

The side effect that I encountered that was so worrisome to me was a "lack of inhibition" for want of a better term.  On the drug, Razor seemed to not mind the storms so much, but was very quick to try go after other dogs and people that were doing something he didn't like.  On two occasions, he went after people (nobody injured luckily) that were rough housing with other dogs.  One of these people he knows very well and she takes care of him if I have to leave town.  I was very lucky that she is dog savvy and realized he was not playing when he went for her and was able to block him and get him shut down.  He even on one occasion growled and lunged at Cinder when I was playing with her (with or without drugs, this is not tolerate >:() 

After talking to my vet, he explained that the "tendency to act on impulses that would normally be suppressed" is a possible side effect with this drug.  As a result, I have pulled him off of it completely, since being on it causes him to be a danger not only to himself, but to others.

Anyway, if you have a dog that has a bit of a hair trigger to begin with, I would not use this drug.  Even if they do not have a hair trigger, I would be aware of the potential problem and watch them closely while using it.

Michael