Reconcile Main Uses
Treatment of Separation Anxiety: Indicated specifically as an aid in the treatment of canine separation anxiety, particularly when manifested by destructive behaviors, excessive vocalization (howling/barking), and inappropriate elimination (urination/defecation).
Behavior Modification Support: Designed to be used exclusively in conjunction with a behavior modification plan to make the dog more receptive to training.
 
Reconcile Active Ingredients
Active Ingredient: Fluoxetine Hydrochloride (a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor or SSRI).
Role and Mechanism: Fluoxetine increases the levels of serotonin in the brain—a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood and anxiety. It works by blocking the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin into the nerve cells. This prolongs the presence of serotonin in the synaptic cleft, helping to correct chemical imbalances and creating a "calmer frame of mind" that allows the pet to learn new, non-anxious behaviors.
 
Reconcile Dosage & Administration
Recommended Dosage: The standard dose is 1–2 mg/kg (0.5–0.9 mg/lb) of body weight administered once daily.
Administration Timing: Can be given with or without food. However, if the pet experiences gastrointestinal upset, giving the dose with a small meal or treat is recommended.
Missed Doses: If a dose is missed, the next dose should be given at the regular time. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Duration: While initial improvement can be seen in 1–2 weeks, a full course is often 8 weeks or longer. Reconcile has a long half-life due to its active metabolite (norfluoxetine), and in many cases may be discontinued without tapering. However, gradually reducing the dose over several weeks is often recommended to minimize the risk of behavioral changes. Discontinuation or dose changes should always be done under veterinary guidance.
 
Reconcile Side Effects & Safety
Common Side Effects: Lethargy/depression (32.9%) and decreased appetite/weight loss (26.9%) are the most common. Other common signs include vomiting, shaking/tremors, and diarrhea.
Serious Safety Warnings:
Seizures: Contraindicated in dogs with epilepsy or a history of seizures.
Aggression: Not recommended for the treatment of aggression and may occasionally cause an increase in aggressive behaviors.
Drug Interactions: Should not be used with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) like selegiline or amitraz (flea collars). A washout period of 14 days after stopping an MAOI and 6 weeks before starting an MAOI is required.
Aged Cheese Warning: Owners should avoid giving "aged" cheeses (e.g., Cheddar, Parmesan) as treats while on this medication, as they contain tyramine, which can interact with SSRIs to cause jitteriness or elevated heart rate.
 
Reconcile Manufacturer Information
Manufacturer: Virbac Corporation
Official Website: https://www.reconcile.com/
Brand Introduction: Reconcile was the first SSRI specifically formulated and approved as a chewable, flavored tablet for dogs. It is distributed in Canada by specialized veterinary pharmacies and distributors, providing a pet-specific alternative to human-label fluoxetine (Prozac®).