Reconcile is a veterinary-labeled fluoxetine product manufactured by Elanco that is FDA-approved for the treatment of separation anxiety in dogs when used in conjunction with a behavior modification program. It is the flavored chewable tablet formulation of fluoxetine specifically designed for dogs, making it easier to administer than generic human fluoxetine tablets. Reconcile was one of the first medications to receive FDA approval for a canine behavioral condition and remains a cornerstone of separation anxiety treatment. Generic fluoxetine (the same active ingredient sold as Prozac for humans) is widely available at a significantly lower cost and is frequently prescribed as an alternative.
What Is Reconcile Used For?
Reconcile is specifically FDA-approved for:
- Canine separation anxiety — used in conjunction with a behavior modification training plan
Reconcile is intended to be part of a comprehensive treatment approach that includes both medication and behavioral training. The FDA approval specifically states that it should be used “as part of a comprehensive behavioral management program.” Medication alone is less effective than medication combined with behavior modification.
While the FDA-approved indication is limited to separation anxiety, veterinarians commonly prescribe fluoxetine (generic or Reconcile) off-label for other behavioral conditions including compulsive disorders, aggression, generalized anxiety, and urine marking. For detailed information about all of fluoxetine’s veterinary uses, see the fluoxetine (Prozac) profile.
How Does Reconcile Work?
Reconcile contains fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin at the presynaptic neuron, increasing the amount of serotonin available in the synaptic cleft. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation, anxiety, and emotional stability. By increasing serotonin availability, fluoxetine helps reduce the panic and distress associated with separation from the owner.
The onset of therapeutic effect is gradual — most dogs require 4-6 weeks of daily dosing before significant behavioral improvement is observed. During this period, behavior modification training should be actively implemented.
Dosage
Your veterinarian will determine the exact dose based on your dog’s weight.
| Dog’s Weight | Reconcile Tablet Strength | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8.8-17.6 lbs (4-8 kg) | 8 mg | 1 tablet | Once daily |
| 17.7-35.2 lbs (8-16 kg) | 16 mg | 1 tablet | Once daily |
| 35.3-70.4 lbs (16-32 kg) | 32 mg | 1 tablet | Once daily |
| 70.5-140.8 lbs (32-64 kg) | 64 mg | 1 tablet | Once daily |
Standard dose: 1-2 mg/kg once daily. Reconcile chewable tablets are available in 8 mg, 16 mg, 32 mg, and 64 mg strengths.
How to Give Reconcile to Your Dog
- Reconcile is a flavored chewable tablet designed for dogs. Most dogs accept it readily.
- Give once daily, at the same time each day.
- Can be given with or without food.
- Allow 4-6 weeks for full therapeutic effect. Do not increase the dose or discontinue prematurely.
- Do not stop abruptly. Taper gradually over 2-4 weeks under veterinary guidance.
- Reconcile must be used alongside a behavior modification program — medication alone is significantly less effective for separation anxiety.
Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects (Contact Your Vet) |
|---|---|
| Decreased appetite (most common) | Seizures |
| Mild lethargy | Tremors or agitation |
| GI upset (vomiting, diarrhea) | Signs of serotonin syndrome (panting, rapid heart rate, high temperature) |
| Restlessness (first 1-2 weeks) | Severe or persistent anorexia |
| Calming effect (desired) | Difficulty urinating |
Most side effects are mild and transient, typically resolving within the first 1-2 weeks. Decreased appetite is the most commonly reported side effect.
Drug Interactions
- MAO inhibitors (selegiline/Anipryl, amitraz): NEVER combine — risk of fatal serotonin syndrome.
- Tramadol: Risk of serotonin syndrome. Avoid concurrent use.
- Other serotonergic drugs (trazodone, clomipramine, buspirone): Increased risk. Some combinations used under specialist guidance only.
- Phenobarbital: May alter fluoxetine metabolism.
- NSAIDs, anticoagulants: Increased bleeding risk.
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to fluoxetine
- Concurrent use with MAO inhibitors (including amitraz-containing products)
- Pregnant, lactating, or breeding dogs
- Dogs with epilepsy (may lower seizure threshold) — use with caution
- Dogs with severe liver or kidney disease
Storage
- Store at controlled room temperature, 68-77degF (20-25degC).
- Protect from moisture.
- Keep in original container.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Cost & Availability
Reconcile is a prescription veterinary product.
- Reconcile (brand): $60-$120 per month depending on dog size
- Generic fluoxetine (same active ingredient): $15-$30 per month at human pharmacies
- The significant price difference means most veterinarians prescribe generic fluoxetine rather than brand-name Reconcile
- Available forms: Reconcile — flavored chewable tablets (8, 16, 32, 64 mg); Generic fluoxetine — tablets, capsules, liquid
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Reconcile the same as Prozac? The active ingredient (fluoxetine) is identical. Reconcile is the veterinary-labeled, flavored chewable version designed for dogs. Prozac and generic fluoxetine are human formulations. All contain the same medication and work the same way. The main advantages of Reconcile are its flavored chewable form and weight-based dosing convenience.
Why is behavior modification required? The FDA approval for Reconcile specifically requires its use alongside behavioral training. Studies show that fluoxetine combined with behavior modification produces significantly better outcomes than either approach alone. Medication reduces the panic response enough for the dog to learn new coping behaviors through training.
How long will my dog need Reconcile? Treatment duration varies. Many dogs remain on fluoxetine for 6-12 months or longer. Some dogs can eventually be weaned off the medication after successful behavior modification, while others benefit from long-term treatment. Your veterinarian will periodically reassess and discuss whether a gradual taper is appropriate.
Should I choose Reconcile or generic fluoxetine? For most dogs, generic fluoxetine is equally effective and significantly less expensive. The main advantage of Reconcile is ease of administration (flavored chewable). If your dog readily takes pills or you can use pill pockets, generic fluoxetine is the more cost-effective choice.
Sources & References
- FDA - Reconcile (Fluoxetine) Approval
- DailyMed - Reconcile Label
- Elanco - Reconcile Product Information
- AVSAB - Position Statement on Behavioral Medications
- VCA Hospitals - Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Verification Notes
The FDA approval of Reconcile for canine separation anxiety is confirmed as TRUE in the fact-check report (Claim C8). The requirement for combination with behavior modification is verified (Claim C9, rated TRUE). Pricing data is consistent with the research corpus ($60-120/month brand vs. $15-30/month generic). The research notes Reconcile is a “veterinary-labeled formulation of fluoxetine.”