How long does fluoxetine take to work?

Behavioural effects build over 4-6 weeks. Do not stop the course early without veterinary advice.

Can I use human fluoxetine instead?

Only on veterinary prescription. The veterinary licensed product (Reconcile) is the cheapest legally compliant option for most owners.

Reconcile price comparison UK

SSRI antidepressant licensed for separation-related disorders in dogs, ideally combined with behaviour modification. Active ingredient: fluoxetine. Below: compare UK vet prices with VMD-approved online pharmacies for your dog's weight.

Dog weight (kg)Your vet's price per month (optional, £)

Typical vet price

£34.00–£50.00/mo

indicative UK range

Cheapest online

£22.95/mo

Pet Drugs Online

Annual saving

£132.60–£324.60

after £21 prescription fee: £111.60–£303.60

Based on a 15 kg dog, recommended strength: 16 mg. Assumes 12 months of continuous use (chronic dosing) and one written prescription per year. CMA Order caps the prescription fee at £21 for the first medicine, plus £12.50 per additional medicine on the same prescription. Prices are indicative and last verified 2026-05-15. Always confirm the current price on the pharmacy site before purchase.

Pharmacy	Pack	Pack price	Monthly cost	Buy
Pet Drugs Online VMD approved · Free over £39	30 tablets	£22.95	£22.95 Best value	Buy from Pet Drugs Online
Animed Direct VMD approved · Free over £29, next-day available	30 tablets	£24.33	£24.33	Buy from Animed Direct
VetUK VMD approved · Free over £29	30 tablets	£25.93	£25.93	Buy from VetUK

What Reconcile treats

SSRI antidepressant licensed for separation-related disorders in dogs, ideally combined with behaviour modification.

Why it costs more at the vet

Elanco-branded fluoxetine, identical molecule to the human generic. Online price typically half the average UK practice.

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How to get a written prescription

The CMA Order is legally binding by 23 September 2026. Every UK vet must offer a written prescription on request, with the fee capped at £21 for the first medicine plus £12.5 per additional medicine on the same prescription. Take the prescription to any VMD-approved online pharmacy listed above. We have a short guide with a template email you can send to your practice.

Read the full prescription guide →

Common side effects

Reduced appetite
Lethargy
Vomiting (early in therapy)

This is not a complete list. Always read the patient information leaflet and speak to your vet about side effects.

FAQ

How long does fluoxetine take to work?: Behavioural effects build over 4-6 weeks. Do not stop the course early without veterinary advice.
Can I use human fluoxetine instead?: Only on veterinary prescription. The veterinary licensed product (Reconcile) is the cheapest legally compliant option for most owners.

Related medications

Behaviour

Clomicalm

Tricyclic antidepressant licensed for separation-related disorders in dogs. Older than Reconcile, still widely prescribed.

Natural calming supplement derived from a milk protein. Not a POM-V medicine - available without prescription. Used for mild stress, travel, kennelling and adjustment periods.

Oromucosal gel for noise-phobia events such as fireworks, thunderstorms or gunshots. Applied to the gum 30-60 minutes before the trigger.

Chronic pain (especially neuropathic) and situational anxiety in dogs.

Track Reconcile price drops

We'll email when Reconcile drops in price at any of the pharmacies above.

Pricing data status: indicative. Last verified 2026-05-15. Pharmacies change prices regularly - always confirm before purchase. Not medical advice.