Trazodone is in a class of drugs called Serotonin Antagonist/Reuptake Inhibitor, or SARI. This medication potentiates the body’s natural serotonin levels in the brain and helps pets stay more calm and reduces anxiety. Trazodone has a fast onset and can take effect in as little as 2 hours. It also has a relatively short duration of effect. This is a first line medication to treat acute anxieties that arise from stressful situations as well as noise aversions, phobias, and other problems that need temporary relief. The most common adverse effect is sedation, though that is also a desired effect. GI disturbances can also occur such as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. It has also been shown to occasionally cause “disinhibition” which can lead to increased aggression. If any adverse effects are noted, please discontinue the medication and contact us.