From:
Mike
Date: 2012-02-09 14:45:45 UTC
Subject: [ferrethealth] Insulinoma Question
To: ferrethealth@yahoogroups.com
This question is for the group and NOT for the moderators because I personally do not value their opinions.
I have a ferret who has insulinoma. I recently went up to 0.8 cc (1mg/1ml) twice a day. His glucose was 77. At that time he looked like a new ferret. The time that glucose was taken was about 3 hours after he got the prednisolone (and food and pepcid).
I noticed yesterday (about 11 hours after his med) that he appeared to be a little ataxic.
I've had a post from a reader (who I respect) that said I should consider dividing up the dose to three times a day ((0.8 + 0.8)/3). Also the suggestion for diazoxide.
My vet had said if we need to go up on the Prednisolone that he would want to add the diazoxide. (by the way I have this same question emailed to my vet).
If I break up his meds to 3 times a day that will mean instead of 6 am and 6 pm for his meds I'd have to go to 6am, 2 pm, and 10 pm. There are two days in the week that the 2 pm dose will be all but impossible to give. No one will be around then, the neighbor is not that reliable.
Here is my question can I:
1) Give the meds at 6am, 12 noon, and 10pm? (I'm not sure if this possible because the 12 noon my not be do able)
2) Give the meds 3 times a day on 5 days and 2 time a day on those two days difficult days?
3) Should I keep the twice a day schedule and start on diazoxide (I understand that diazoxide helps stabilize the glucose)
I know he is not on very much prednisolone but I have had two ferrets develop GI bleeds after being on prednisolone for several months. They did this despite the fact that they get 15 mls of pureed chicken with water and pepcid. I'd like to avoid this at all costs. He has been maintaining his weight and has not shown any secondary signs like pred belly. He is over 7 years old. He is in good shape, muscle tone, alertness, etc
I've heard that ferrets live from 5 -7 years, 7-9 years, and others. I know of one that lived 14 years. Rescue ferrets tend to have shorter lives due to the stress of being abused. He is a rescue and has been part of our family for over 5 years.
Thank you
Mike
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