Selegiline for dogs (Anipryl®) may be prescribed for some pups who are struggling with the effects of canine cognitive dysfunction, commonly known as doggy dementia. Integrative veterinarian Dr. Julie Buzby explains how selegiline works and when to expect to see improvement. She also goes over the side effects and precautions so you can have all the facts you need to make informed choices for your dog.
If your dog is struggling with signs of dementia such as confusion, agitation (especially at night), disorientation, or loss of housetraining, you may be searching for anything that will help your sweet senior companion feel and act more like himself or herself. For some dogs, the solution comes partially in the form of a medication called selegiline (Anipryl®).
What is selegiline (Anipryl®) for dogs?
Selegiline is an FDA-approved prescription medication used in dogs for treating canine cognitive dysfunction and pituitary-dependent Cushing’s disease. However, selegiline typically isn’t as effective at managing Cushing’s disease as other medications like trilostane or mitotane. Thus, the focus here will be on its use for canine cognitive dysfunction.
Selegiline is available under multiple brand names: Anipryl®, Eldepryl®, l-deprenyl, Selgian®, Carbex®, and Zelapar®. It is also available in a generic form.
What is canine cognitive dysfunction?
Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans and occurs when changes in the brain lead to a decrease in cognitive function. This condition, which is also known as canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome or doggy dementia, is fairly common in older dogs.
The signs of dementia in dogs can be described by the acronym DISHAA:
- Disorientation: Affected dogs may have trouble finding the right side of the door, get stuck in the corners, or circle aimlessly.
- Impaired social interactions: Increased aggression toward people or other pets, withdrawing from the family, or seeming more clingy can all occur.
- Sleep/wake cycle disturbances: The dog may sleep all day and be up all night, whine or pace instead of sleeping, or generally seem anxious at night.
- House soiling, learning, and memory deficits: Dogs with dementia may forget their training, have accidents in the house, or not remember where their food and water bowls are.
- Activity changes: Some dogs become more active while others become less active.
- Anxiety and fear: New onset separation anxiety, noise anxiety, or generalized anxiety are possible, or an already fearful dog may become even more anxious.
Should you notice some of the signs of cognitive decline in your dog, it is a good idea to make an appointment with your vet. He or she can assess your dog and may run through a canine cognitive dysfunction checklist with you. Then, if CCD seems likely, your vet will make recommendations for managing the condition, which could include trying out selegiline (Anipryl).
How does selegiline work?
Selegiline primarily works by increasing the levels of the brain signaling chemical dopamine. This is helpful since lower-than-normal levels of dopamine in the brain of dogs with CCD may contribute to the symptoms they experience.
To exert its effects, selegiline blocks the action of the enzyme monoamine oxidase B (MAOB), which breaks down dopamine. The MAOB enzyme is generally more active in older animals. But in dogs with CCD, it breaks down even more dopamine than would be expected for a dog of that age. This leads to low dopamine levels.
By decreasing the breakdown of dopamine, selegiline increases dopamine levels in the brain. This may improve some of the troubling symptoms that dogs with dementia experience. However, it is important to realize that multiple other changes also occur in the brains of dogs with CCD. Thus, dopamine is just one piece of the puzzle.
While not as well understood as its effects on MAOB, selegiline is also thought to decrease free radicals in the brain, aid in nerve transmission, and increase the release of dopamine. Additionally, since selegiline is broken down into L-amphetamine and L-methamphetamine, it may have some mild stimulant effects.
What is the dosage for selegiline?
Generally, dogs will start out taking selegiline once a day (every 24 hours) in the morning. Since it has a stimulant effect, giving selegiline in the morning helps your dog be more alert during the day when interacting with you, rather than at night when everyone, including your dog, should be sleeping.
Selegiline comes in 1.25 mg, 2 mg, 4 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg, and 80 mg tablets. Alternatively, if your dog won’t take pills, your veterinarian can order a flavored selegiline liquid from a veterinary compounding pharmacy.
It is fine to give selegiline with a meal, especially if the selegiline may be causing some GI upset. However, you should never give selegiline with aged cheeses. Doing so can cause high blood pressure (hypertension in dogs), which can be dangerous for your dog.
Your veterinarian will determine what form and dose of selegiline is best for your dog. The decision depends on your dog’s clinical signs, weight, and other medications your dog is taking. It is very important that you follow your veterinarian’s instructions. Do not make changes to the selegiline dose without consulting your veterinarian first.
What if I miss a dose?
If you realize you forgot to give your dog his or her selegiline, start by checking what time it is. If it is still morning or early afternoon (and you typically give the medication in the morning), you can generally give the missed dose when you remember. However, it is best not to give doses too close together. If it is late afternoon or evening, skip the missed dose. Then give your dog the next dose at the usual time. Do not give your dog a double dose.
How quickly does selegiline work for dogs?
In most cases, dog parents begin to notice an improvement in their dog’s cognitive function after approximately one month of treatment with selegiline. However, it may take up to 6-12 weeks to see the full effects. As with any medication, it can require some trial and error to find the perfect dose for your dog. And some dogs may respond faster than others.
What are the possible side effects of selegiline?
In a study in Veterinary therapeutics evaluating the use of selegiline for dogs in a clinical setting, side effects included:
- Diarrhea (4.2% of dogs)
- Poor appetite (3.6% of dogs)
- Vomiting and increased salivation (3.4% of dogs)
These seem to be the most common side effects of selegiline, although other side effects are also possible.
According to the product label, the main potential side effects of selegiline reported during approval trials include:
GI upset
Dogs taking selegiline may vomit, act nauseous, and/or the dog may be having diarrhea but acting fine. Additionally, some dogs may stop eating or have a reduced appetite. Giving selegiline with food can help decrease GI upset. But if the vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite becomes problematic, don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet.
Restlessness or agitation
Selegiline acts as a mild stimulant, so some dogs experience restlessness, agitation, or excitability. Other dogs may become more aggressive (or start to be aggressive) or exhibit compulsive or repetitive behaviors such as circling. Looking at your dog’s change from baseline is important since CCD itself also causes dogs to be more restless or exhibit other behavior changes.
Changes in neurologic status
While not common, seizures in dogs, the dog being wobbly and off balance, weakness, and disorientation are possible when dogs are taking selegiline. If you see these signs, contact your veterinarian.
Lethargy
Sometimes you may notice your dog lying around more, not wanting to play, or generally being a lethargic dog. Again, you need to take your dog’s normal attitude and activity level and any underlying conditions into account when determining if selegiline could be causing lethargy as a side effect.
Uncommon side effects
The following side effects were reported in 5% or less of dogs in the approval trials:
- Increased drooling
- UTI in dogs (urinary tract infection)
- Itching
- Weakness
- Pale gums
- Weight loss
- Decreased hearing
- Panting
- Heart or lung issues (heart murmurs in dogs, increased heart rate, or difficulty breathing)
- Increased or excessive licking
However, when looking at the list of side effects, it is important to keep in mind that some of the reported side effects may be related to the underlying CCD or concurrent conditions, not the drug itself. If you are noticing anything abnormal with your dog and aren’t sure if it is a selegiline side effect, reach out to your vet. He or she can advise you on the next best steps.
What are the signs of a selegiline overdose?
Dogs who receive an overdose of selegiline may experience drooling, panting, abnormal pupil responses, weight loss, pacing or other repetitive behaviors, and dehydration in dogs. If you think you accidentally overdosed your dog, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control center immediately.
Which dogs should not take selegiline?
There are some situations where the vet may use selegiline with caution or not use it at all.
Dogs who are already aggressive or have the potential to become aggressive
Selegiline should be used with caution in dogs who are aggressive. While it is rare, selegiline can increase aggression. Additionally, sometimes it may cause a dog to challenge the established hierarchy in the house, leading to fights between pets.
Dogs with certain medical conditions
While opinions are mixed, some veterinarians may be extra cautious when using selegiline in dogs with high blood pressure, congestive heart failure in dogs, liver disease in dogs, diabetes in dogs, or a pheochromocytoma (a tumor that releases “fight or flight” hormones). Your veterinarian can help you decide what is best for your dog’s situation.
Pregnant or lactating dogs
As of now, researchers have not conducted enough studies to determine whether selegiline is safe in pregnant or nursing dogs.
Are there medications that interact poorly with selegiline?
Combining selegiline with certain other medications can be risky, especially if it is a medication that increases serotonin levels. Thus, it is very important to mention any medications your dog is taking to your veterinarian. This includes prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and natural remedies.
Selegiline plus some medications may cause serotonin syndrome
If your dog is taking an anti-anxiety medication, certain herbal supplements, or other medications that increase serotonin levels in the brain, adding selegiline to the mix could lead to a dangerous condition called serotonin syndrome in dogs.
Serotonin syndrome occurs when the levels of the brain signaling chemical serotonin are too high. Serotonin acts in the brain to create feelings of happiness and well-being. But too much of it is a bad thing. Clinical signs of serotonin syndrome include:
- Vomiting, diarrhea, poor appetite, and/or abdominal pain
- Excessive sedation, which is often the first sign of serotonin syndrome
- Tremors, muscle rigidity, or difficulty walking
- Enlarged pupils
- Drooling
- Agitation, disorientation, confusion, restlessness (above your dog’s baseline)
- Seizures
Left untreated, serotonin syndrome can be deadly for your dog. If you suspect that your dog is developing serotonin syndrome, make an emergency vet visit immediately.
Drug combinations that increase the risk of serotonin syndrome
Because anxiety is a component of CCD, dogs who have CCD may already be taking anti-anxiety medications or could benefit from taking anxiety-reducing medications. This makes using selegiline tricky since combining it with anti-anxiety medications can cause serotonin syndrome.
Some of the more common anxiety-reducing medications that cannot safely be combined with selegiline include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine for dogs or tetracyclic and tricyclic antidepressants such as clomipramine and mirtazapine. There is also the potential that combining selegiline and melatonin for dogs, a common supplement used to improve sleep-wake disturbances in dogs with CCD, could lead to serotonin syndrome.
Additionally, giving selegiline with other MAO inhibitors, such as amitraz (a medication used for killing fleas and ticks), greatly increases the chances the dog will develop serotonin syndrome. Thus, it is important to avoid that combination.
If your dog is on a serotonin-increasing medication or supplement and you are interested in trying selegiline, your vet will let you know how long you need to wait after stopping the other medication. For example, your dog often needs to be off fluoxetine for about five weeks before starting selegiline. This is the case because fluoxetine stays in the body a long time. However, the wait time might be shorter for other medications.
Note: The list of potential drugs and supplements that could cause serotonin syndrome when combined with selegiline is long. Thus, it isn’t possible to mention them all here.
Other important drug interactions
While serotonin syndrome is the most important drug interaction to keep in mind, there are several other medication interactions of note.
Don’t use selegiline and phenylpropanolamine (Proin) together
Selegiline should not be used at the same time as phenylpropanolamine (Proin®). Vets often use Proin to help with urinary incontinence in older dogs. Generally, you will need to stop giving your dog phenylpropanolamine for at least two weeks and switch to a different incontinence medication prior to starting selegiline.
A dog who is taking both medications concurrently is at an increased risk for developing dangerously high blood pressure.
Use caution when combining selegiline and narcotics or sedatives
In the event that your dog needs to be sedated or anesthetized, it is important that your vet knows your dog is taking selegiline. If your vet plans to use an alpha-2 agonist medication as part of the anesthesia or sedation protocol, he or she may advise not giving the selegiline in the days surrounding the procedure. Additionally, there is concern (mostly based on studies in humans) that combining selegiline and some narcotic pain medications may cause adverse effects.
Inform your vet of all medications and supplements your dog is taking
Especially if your dog is taking multiple medications or supplements, it is a good idea to keep an updated list of all medications and their dosage in your phone or a notebook. Providing this information to your vet can help avoid possible drug interactions.
What kind of monitoring do dogs taking selegiline require?
While your dog is taking selegiline, it will be important to watch for side effects. Plus, you should track changes in your dog’s CCD symptoms over time. Some dog parents find it helpful to keep a journal of observations so they can better see how the selegiline is affecting their dog.
During the approval trials for selegiline, some dogs had a decrease in their red blood cell count. It isn’t clear if this was related to the medication or an underlying condition. But to be safe, some vets may recommend periodically running a complete blood count to check red blood cell levels. This, plus other blood tests for dogs like a chemistry panel, is also a great way to keep tabs on a senior dog’s overall health.
Are there alternatives to selegiline (Anipryl)?
Selegiline is currently the only FDA-approved medication for treating canine cognitive dysfunction. But there is a plethora of options other than selegiline, too.
- Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT oil for dogs) supplements: MCT oil can help regulate sleep-wake cycles, decrease anxiety, and improve memory and learning.
- Veterinary prescription diets: Purina Pro Plan® Neurocare™, Purina® Bright Mind, or Hill’s® Prescription Diet® b/d are specifically formulated to help support cognitive function.
- Exercising your dog’s brain: Mental stimulation toys and games for dogs, taking “sniffing walks,” teaching your dog a new trick, etc., can all be beneficial.
- Sticking to a routine: Your dog may be less confused or disoriented if you keep feeding, walking, playing, and sleeping times as consistent as possible.
- Managing anxiety: There are various medications and supplements that can help decrease your dog’s anxiety. However, it is important to ensure your vet knows the medications and supplements your dog is already taking to help avoid drug interactions.
Often, a vet will recommend a combination of the things on this list, plus or minus selegiline.
Talk to your veterinarian about the options for managing CCD
Many times, managing dementia requires a combination of approaches. Thus, it is important to remember that selegiline may be a piece of the puzzle, not the whole solution.
If you suspect your dog has CCD or you are currently trying to manage his or her CCD, it doesn’t hurt to ask your veterinarian if selegiline, supplements, prescription diets, and/or brain enrichment may be right for your dog. Together, you can find some tools to make your dog’s golden years as great as possible, despite dementia setting in.
Has your dog taken selegiline for CCD?
Please share your experience.
This post was originally published on April 14, 2022 and updated on February 2, 2026.
Hello. I have a 13 year old mini Aussie shepherd who began showing signs of sign downing (restlessness at night, whining, barking), and she also became less interactive with us other than to go on walks. We trialed pain meds for about a week with no changes. So we did start her on 15 mg of Selegiline about 3 weeks ago. Still too soon to say for sure if it’s working. No consistent improvements, but hopeful. Did we jump the gun with starting her on this? I fear I was so anxious to get her comfortable (along with myself and my husband at night) that I only trialed a few options before the selegiline. I just wanted to be proactive if this is in fact the early signs of CCD. Trazodone helped, but not with the diminished interacting with us day to day. I just hope we are not missing something else while focusing in on CCD treatment. I also have been doing research (maybe a tad too much for my own good), and I’m a bit fearful of giving her something that could unknowingly have adverse effects with the Selegiline. She’s on Cosequin senior joint supplement, take the Selegiline in a quarter piece of a pill pocket, started her on omega oil, and just purchased a mushroom blend containing lions mane mushroom along with more CBD oil that she gets at bedtime. My hollistic vet is aware of these changes and recommended a probiotic to add in also. The probiotic I purchased contains a strand that produces GABA in the gut. While my vet doesn’t seem to think GABA has adverse interactions with selegiline, I still feel nervous on mixing this combo. Same with L-theanine. Have you heard of any adverse affects with these supplements and selegiline? Manganese was another. Which is in Platinum Performance Canine complete joint supplement that I wanted to switch out the cosequin for. The other thing I still haven’t been able to get clarity on is the food interactions. I read about aged cheese. But does this mean ANY cheese? For instance, cheese is an ingredient in her Dogsters ice cream she gets occasionally. Then her base kibble. Open farms healthy weight chicken and whitefish contains chicken liver. I’ve read chicken liver is bad to mix with selegiline. I add in food toppers at dinner time and rotate between freeze dried organs (currently lamb heart, green tripe) and also FD green lipped mussels. I read somewhere that “dried” meats are bad to give with selegiline. Any advice, suggestions or input on all of this would be greatly appreciated!
Hi Britnee,
I understand your concern for your senior girl and think she is very lucky to have you advocating for her health and well-being. I’ll be honest, all the different foods and supplements you mentioned are a bit overwhelming. I have not heard of any negative interactions between selegiline and GABA or L-theanine. I am not aware of any issues with feeding cheese, chicken liver, or dried meats while taking selegiline. One thing I would highly recommend you look into would be an MCT oil supplement. It has shown to offer great benefits for dogs with dementia (especially in the early stages). Here is an article with more information: MCT Oil for Dogs Can Help Dogs with Dementia or Epilepsy
I do think you may be researching yourself into a stressful situation. Try to take things day by day and allow yourself to enjoy the time you are gifted. Wishing you and your sweet girl all the best. Bless you both. ♥
I have a 15yr old, 5lb yorkie that has CCD. She has all of the symptoms. Unfortunately, the veterinarians in our area are not familiar with Selegiline and it’s benifits. I was able to get a prescription for 2mg Selegiline HCI Compounded Capsules but her vet isn’t certain on how to administer it. I live in a very rural area and her vet is an older gentleman and unfortunately doesn’t use today’s technology for research.
Can you recommend the correct dosage for my girl? Can I open the capsule and mix with her food or treat? Should I start with a small portion of the powder to test any negative effects? I’m doing all I can to help her deal with this horrible condition and most certainly don’t won’t to do anything to harm her.
She takes 10mg of Lasix in the morning for congestive heart failure. I’ve tried Pet Wellbeings Melatonin drops and their Calming Care drops with little results to help her rest at night. We are currently trying Zesty Paws Calming + Congnition Bites at night. These seem to help more so than the drops. I’ve read that others have had positive results with giving the Selegiline in the mornings but I don’t want to create more suffering for her by not giving the correct dosage.
I appreciate your advice as I literally have no where else to turn.
Hi Darlene,
I am sorry you are in this difficult situation with your senior pup. I looked over the recommended dosage range for Selegiline and it seems as though the 2mg capsules you were given are the correct dosage for your dog based on the weight you provided. Not all compounded medications are created equal, and I can’t say for sure if it is safe or effective to open them and use the powder by itself. Some medications have to stay in the capsule to avoid them being broken down too quickly in the stomach. Did the compounding pharmacy not include directions for use/administration with the capsules? While Selegiline does great things for some dogs, it doesn’t work for every situation. You may want to consider trying a NeuroCare diet or Bright Minds food from Purina. MCT oil has also been shown to do great things for cognitive function in dogs. Here is a link with more information: MCT Oil for Dogs Can Help Dogs with Dementia or Epilepsy
Hoping you can find a way to maintain your dog’s quality of life. Wishing you all the best and keep up the good work!
My 12 yr old pit/lab/border collie mix has been struggling for a few weeks, started with noticed hearing loss and vision ( I thought) he had his eyes tested for pressure and glaucoma but turns out he had an infection. We treated that. He had extensive blood work / Lyme & parasites, fecal, urinalysis , and everything looks good. He stumbles, wakes panting in the middle of the night thirsty and lost. He gets stuck in places that make no sense. We have lived here for 8 yrs. He still eats well but mostly I feed him by hand, he still asks to potty outside but struggles a bit. Our vet suggested Vetprofen which we did for a week 2x a day. We have seen a chiropractor which seemed to help. Some days I think I’m selfish holding on but then the next day we will have a good day. He’s been on a Cbd oil since last July after cancer removal, he gets a Cbd oil with turmeric and frankincense which we started about 2 weeks ago. Also he takes a mushroom tincture ( lions mane, Reishi ,&cordyceps ) we also started melatonin at night a few days ago, which helped a bit. These things seem to help a bit but just not enough I’m afraid… although I’ve tried to keep things natural for him since his cancer removal over a year ago.. I’m now looking at Selegiline as an option. Do you know if these natural supplements will still be ok to take? From what I said does it sound like a good option ? We go back to the chiropractor in a week and I’m scheduling an abdominal X-ray this week because of the struggle to poo. I’m desperate to exhaust all options for help for him.
Hi Jackie,
My heart goes out to you as you try to navigate this tricky path with your senior guy. While I can’t say for sure if selegiline will be the miracle you are hoping for, it might be worth a try. I am not aware of any negative interactions with selegiline and the supplements you mentioned (my knowledge of mushrooms is not the best), except for the melatonin. Selegiline has been known to cause serotonin syndrome when combined with similar types of medications and melatonin mimics serotonin in the body. It may not be enough to cause a problem for your pup, but I would recommend you discuss it further with your vet. Hoping you can find some solutions and are able to maintain your boy’s quality of life for a bit longer. Wishing you strength and comfort. Bless you both. ♥
My nearly 16-year-old dachshund was diagnosed with CCD early this year. Her vet prescribed Selegiline, and we have had amazing results! She had been anxiously pacing, was uninterested in anything but food, would not wag her tail or bark, and was completely incontinent. After 7 weeks of Selegiline, all CCD symptoms have disappeared. My questions are: Will the positive results of this drug diminish over time? If they do, should I increase dosage (I’m currently giving her one 5mg tablet every morning)? Will her monthly worm medication adversely interact with Selegiline? I’d appreciate your advice!
Hi Linda,
This is such great news!!! I am glad your girl responded so well to the medication and has gained back her quality of life. Unfortunately, yes, with time the CCD will progress and the Selegiline will not be as effective. I can’t say if her dosage should be increased as I am not personally involved with her medical care and am not aware of all her case details. This would be a great question for your vet, and they should be able to help guide you as you navigate this difficult path. The monthly prevention should not cause any issues and I have not heard of any negative interactions between these medications. Hoping for many happy days ahead. Wishing you both all the best and keep up the good work!
Can I administer Carprofen along with Selegiline? Penny has a history of IVDD and is currently limping. Thank you for your advice!
Hi Linda,
There are no warnings or listed interactions for these two medications, so they should be safe to give together. As always, double check with your vet. I’d rather be extra cautious and avoid accidentally causing a bigger issue!
My dog Roxy is 12 years old, decreased hearing and increased waking at night. I used to be maybe once nightly and has now increased to panting, pawing, startling awake and whining. Our vet stated they thought it was sun downers. They discussed anti anxiety medications. After doing a lot of research I feel that she has CCD. Do you think Selegiline is a better option or worth trying first for dogs with “sun downers” / dementia versus anti anxiety medication?
Hi Ashley,
You are definitely on the right track with the research you have done. Sundowners can be one of the symptoms of dementia (cognitive dysfunction). I am not sure which medication would offer your girl the most benefit. I encourage you to discuss Selegiline with your vet and give them the opportunity to let you know why they recommend trying anxiety medications instead. In general, I too would probably choose anxiety medications if there were no other signs of dementia other than the nighttime issues. I am hopeful you will find the best way to improve Roxy’s quality of life. Praying for peace and rest for everyone involved. Keep up the good work and take care!
good day. very interesting comments. thanks for those. our puppy is now 19 years of age.
His name is Bruce and we are his grand parents and have had him a few years. he loves my
wife and is blind. although we think he can see a bit the way he holds his head. our vet gave
him the selegline HCL 5 mg. once daily. hes sooo smart and can tell when we have a pill even if he cant see. anyhow let me get to the quesiton, can i break the capsule and sprinkle the contents over his plate of chicken or beef or what ever. hes on another med to help him with his back legs and ITs Working. yaya. we are 75 and 80 and we are anxious to help him. hes doing better now. thanks.
Hi Gerald,
I am sorry your senior guy is giving you trouble with taking his pills. Please make sure your vet is aware of this issue. They may be able to get this medication compounded into an oral liquid or find other ways to make the process easier. I would not advise you to break the capsules open as the powder inside probably has a very bitter taste. Here is a link to another article with helpful tips and tricks for giving pills: Your Dog Won’t Take Pills? 5 Easy Solutions for Uncooperative Pooches
Wishing you continued success and keep up the good work!
Can SAMe be given to my dog when he’s taking Selegiline? Read that SAMe can help with cognitive dysfunction as well. Please let me know thank you!
Hi John,
I was not sure about this combination, so I did some research. Unfortunately, I am still unsure. The veterinary drug handbook I have with me does not list these drugs as causing a problem with each other (not listed as a contraindication or drug interaction). BUT both of these medications have cautions if used with antidepressants (TCA or otherwise) as they can cause serotonin syndrome. This leads me to believe they could potentially have some sort of adverse interaction and I would be cautious in using them together. This would be a great question for an internal medicine specialist. Your vet should be able to call the local specialist in your area and ask this question for you. Thank you for bringing up this important topic!
thank you so much. would you recommend Selegiline over SAMe? If it was your dog and you had to choose between the two….. my dog had some bad teeth that really needed to be pulled so I had it done and since then I believe it’s made his dementia a little worse. Not sure if it’s from the anesthesia he was under or what. I almost regret doing it but I didn’t want his mouth to get infected and cause health problems. thank you
Hi John,
Yes, I do think I would keep the Selegiline over the SAMe. I am sorry the dementia seemed to progress a bit after the dental procedure. Anesthesia does carry that risk for dementia patients, but I think you made the right choice in moving forward with the dental. It is so hard to weigh the benefits verses the risks. It’s almost like you have to choose the lesser of the two evils. I will attach links to other articles that may offer new ideas about ways to help with the dementia. I think you are doing a great job advocating for your boy. Keep up the good work and keep in touch!
1. Signs of Dementia in Dogs: Stages, Symptoms & Treatment
2. Canine Cognitive Dysfunction in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Solutions
3. Deer Antler Velvet: The Science Behind the Supplement
My 15-ish year old girl is on Selegiline and also takes Denamarin, which I believe is comparable to Sam-e. My vet behaviorist prescribes the Selegiline and knows all the other supplements she’s on….we’ve had her in Denamarin and senilife for a few years, last year my girl started pacing around for hours at a time and that’s when we decided to start up Selegiline. She’s about four months in and *knock on wood* it see,s to ne helping. Before starting it though we had to stop her anxiety meds and wait several weeks for the washout period.
I also had a 17 year old boy with CCD, but Selegiline did not work on him. My vet behaviorist said she’s prescribed this for 7 dogs and my girl is the first time she’s seen it actually provide help. All that to say, it doesn’t work for every pup.
Definitely talk to your vet, or better yet go to a vet behaviorist if you have one in your area, and talk about what would be best for your pup.
Hi Mara,
I am glad you girl is showing some improvement since starting the Selegiline. Thank you for sharing your experience with us and for offering advice and support to others. Take care and keep up the good work!
Thank you for the article. Our soon to be 14 year old male dachshund has adenocarcinoma that metastasized to his lymph nodes. We have been managing it with Palladia 3 times a week for the past year and a half. Fortunately, he has a slow progressing form and is quite stable. However, he has started having BMs in the house at an increasing frequency. It’s as though he gets the signals too late and he doesn’t have time to get to the door despite his best efforts. He doesn’t get upset if he doesn’t make it outside. Oncology said it was not related to the cancer.. Our vet thinks it’s related to cognitive dysfunction and prescribed seleigine yesterday. Otherwise, his quality of life is good. He has good energy, has started to play more with toys, and is bonded to with other dachshund. He’s tolerating the energy of the lab we adopted 9 months ago. He still has a lot of life in him and we are hoping something will work to help reduce the incontinence. Is it likely this medication will address this issue?
Hi Aimee,
I am sorry your little guy has been through so much but glad to hear his cancer has been well managed with Palladia. Selegiline works in varying degrees for different dogs and some just don’t respond to it much at all. So, there is a chance it can help with the incontinence, and we will hope your pup is one of the lucky ones! Here are a couple of other articles with more inforamtion that could prove to be helpful for your situation:
1. Canine Cognitive Dysfunction in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Solutions
2. Signs of Dementia in Dogs: Stages, Symptoms & Treatment
Wishing your sweet boy all the best for many happy days ahead. Take care and keep up the good work. ♥
I want to try this for my dog who seems to have CCD because nothing else has worked to stop her panting/shaking. Does it matter if you use capsules or tablets as capsule are a lot cheaper.
Hi Leslie,
As long as the dosage is correct, it should not matter whether you use a capsule or tablet. Hoping this will be the answer you are looking for to help your sweet pup get some relief from her struggles.
My 16 1/2 American Staffordshire Terrier has been on Anipryl now for 3 months. At first it did seem to make some difference but the effects have seemed to diminish overtime or it could be her CCD is just getting worse. We recently increased her dosage which helped but was short lived. I’ve decided to discontinue for a few weeks and try some holistic approaches and see if we get any benefits from that approach. For the nighttime restlessness we’ve had good results using a liquid melatonin, the pill version seemed to very little for her. For daytime pacing my vet prescribed Alprazolam. At first that seemed to make it worse but after a few days it really helped and she has been able to get a few daytime naps in which definitely improve her dementia symptoms. For us it hasn’t been just one thing that has helped but a combination of things that has helped us manage her symptoms. Also brain games or just simple sniff sessions seem like a good idea, I’ve taken to hiding some treats around the house (just don’t forget they are there!) and that gives her something to do to and breaks up the pacing. I’ve also had problems with her refusing food but we’ve been on a home cooked diet for a couple years due to renal disease so I just have to keep changing recipes until I find one she likes for a few days. Variety seems to be the key to keeping her interested in eating. You just have to keep trying different things until you find a combination that works for you, this is the hardest disease to manage that I’ve encountered but it is doable, just don’t give up. Of course quality of life is important and my dog is still very lucid in the morning and late evening, she just has these manic episodes in the afternoon.
Hi Jesse,
You are doing such a great job! Your girl is very lucky to have you advocating for her health and well-being. This is great information, and I am certain it will be helpful to others. Thank you for sharing your experience with us. Wishing you and your sweet girl the best. Praying for many peaceful days ahead.
Thank you for sharing! I have a red nose pit mix and she is about nearly 16 years old. She is currently on selegine and it was working well first 3 weeks but now she only eats chicken and has diarrhea. Now her pacing has increased and so my question is – how was Alprazolam? Do you have your dog on both selegine and Alprazolam?
About 15 or so months ago my then 13 year old pitbull mix had started to become restless at night, wandering around aimlessly, staring into space, and had completely lost his hearing. I put him on Selegiline about a year ago (0.5 mg/kg). After a few weeks I started to see signs of the dog he’d been before his decline, and after about a month and a half he could hear again. It was a remarkable transformation. Selegiline was a game changer for him. After about 9 months there was a slight decline again, and his dose was increased to 1 mg/kg. He’s now taking 30 mg each morning. He’s doing okay, but not as well as he was. However long I have him, I will be forever thankful for the extra time we were given by the Selegiline. Throughout, I’ve also tried to keep him mentally stimulated, give him regular exercise, supplements, and a good quality diet. I think it all played a part, but the medication was key.
Hi Nicole,
Thank you for sharing your experience with our readers! What a blessing you have gained so much extra quality time with your pup since starting the Selegiline. It makes me smile to know how much this has changed both of your lives. Wishing you all the happiness as you continue on this journey with your sweet boy. Bless you both. ♥
hello,
do I have to wean beagle off 5mg selegiline?
I’m curious if it is even working for night time restlessness.
been on a month.
Hi Terri,
I am not aware of any specific indications that Selegiline needs to be weaned off. Please double check with your vet as this could affect other medication dosages and needs. Your vet may want to try other treatments options for the nighttime restlessness since this does not seem to be working as hoped. Here is a link to another article with more information: Senior Dog Anxiety at Night? 9 Solutions for Better Sleep
Best wishes!
the drug sometimes takes a couple mths to work and your vet might suggest upping to 10 mg
My 17 year old dog with dementia has been on Selgian 10mg for a few years but I’m not all sure it’s helping him. He’s so anxious at night and doesn’t always sleep. He pants and paces, sometimes unbelievably so. Because of this my vet has put him on Gabapentin twice a day but at the moment it’s not working. I am desperate, he has always had anxiety aggression. I can’t even stroke him any more without he goes to bite me.. But in the past I was able to cuddle him.
I am beginning* to wonder if selgia is maybe causing him more anxiety.
I would appreciate any help and advice
Sheila Moorcroft
Dear Sheila,
I am sorry your senior boy is struggling with dementia and anxiety. From what you describe, it sounds like your pup is experiencing the normal progression of cognitive dysfunction. Unfortunately, with this disease, there will come a point where medications just don’t work, and some difficult choices will have to be made about your dog’s quality of life. I would not think the Selegiline is the cause of his increased anxiety levels. I will attach some links to other articles with more information and advice on how to know when your pup is nearing the end of his life. Praying you can find the answers you need to make the best decision for you and your sweet boy. Bless you both.
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. Dementia in Dogs: When to Euthanize Your Beloved Senior Dog
3. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace
A few weeks ago our 15 year old Jack Russell was walking in the house and fell over. He was heading outside from another room in the house. Upon regaining a little control, he walked outside but seemed kind of out of it and his legs were totally splayed and unsupporting if his body for a few minutes. We brought him inside and he rested. He was drinking a lot of water, more than usual. Now, weeks later, his water drinking is back to normal but he won’t eat. He pretty much turns his nose up after sniffing most everything., even rice and chicken, yogurt, etc. If he ate something the previous day or so, then any other time he has refused it. He is mostly eating Cheerios. The last few days he has been pacing all throughout the day, not really sleeping. He does sleep through the night though. His gait is kind of wobbly around home. He still looks forward to his routine walks and his gait is seemingly normal then. He does enjoy a stroller ride so he gets to sightsee and walk when he wants to. We think he had a stroke, his cognitive skills are diminished as he is pacing, disoriented and doesn’t respond to his name. His eyes seem to have lost his sparkle. He does notice when our adult children visit and greets them. Now, he just does the all day into evening pacing inside and outside the house, doesn’t really eat, but does drink water. Don’t want it to be “time,” but his quality of life seems pretty much gone.
Dear Sandy,
My heart aches for you as you watch your senior guy struggle with this recent decline in his health. It does sound like he has suffered some type of neurological event that has diminished his quality of life. Without examining him myself, it is hard to say for sure if euthanasia would be the best option. You may want to call your vet and have them evaluate your pup to give you their honest opinion. I will attach links to other articles with more information and great advice from other readers. I pray you find the answers you need to make the best decision for your sweet boy. Wishing you comfort and strength.
1. Using a Quality of Life Scale for Dogs
2. Dementia in Dogs: When to Euthanize Your Beloved Senior Dog
3. Preparing for Your Dog’s Euthanasia: 10 Thoughts for Peace