I've read the recent posts about using oral melatonin, and I am
concerned that some ferret owners will get the impression that they
can treat and manage adrenal disease simply by giving some of it daily
to their adrenal ferret. While I am sure that those who have posted
that they have had some success using oral melatonin are posting with
good intentions and are trying to help the poster of the original
question, there are undoubtedly better ways to treat adrenal disease.
I have tried oral melatonin several times, and when compared to
the effectiveness of the melatonin implant, I believe there is NO
comparison, at least from my experience. The melatonin implant, which
is not expensive (probably in the $40 range), needs to be given every
3-1/2 months, and it sends out a relatively steady dose of melatonin
to the ferret's body all of that time. I have seen MUCH better results
with the melatonin implant than with oral melatonin.

Better yet, either Lupron Depot shots or Deslorelin implants can be
given in conjunction with the melatonin implant. I have seen some
nearly miraculous results from the Deslorelin implant, and would
highly recommend this as the best way to treat adrenal disease. And it
is also cost effective. Depending on the severity of the disease, the
Deslorelin implant will remain effective for approx. 6-12 months. Break
down the cost of the implant (usually $150 or so), and that is pretty
cheap on a monthly basis. And it also reduces the number of vet visits
during that time. When Deslorelin implants are not available, then a
4-month Lupron Depot shot of at least 500 micrograms is probably the
next best way to go. Again, you can give melatonin, either orally or
with an implant, in conjunction with either Lupron Depot or Deslorelin,
to give your ferret the best chance of having a longer quality of life
if you elect not to have surgery for the adrenal disease. But
suggesting that oral melatonin alone can manage the disease effectively
is misleading and untrue for most ferrets, when there are better
options available to help your ferret live a longer and better life.

Jeff
In Loving Memory of Neo, Trinity, Morphy, Possum, Pip, Pop, Sabrina,
Minnie Mouse, Misty, Frodo, Baggins, and Mr. Parker
Caring for Luna, Baby Girl, Dozer, and Hunny 

[Posted in FML 6984]