Debbie
I can understand that you are concerned about the possible effects of
Prednisone use in ferrets given what you know about its potential effects
on humans.  But you must remember that the safety and efficacy of any drug
can vary greatly from one animal to another.  Many drugs tested in animals
with promising results turn out to be not as useful in humans; we can
consume great quanties of chocolate that would kill a dog, and so on.
 
Pred has been used to treat insulinoma and other diseases ferrets for many
years by many vets and owners with good results.  The major problems I'm
aware of is that the ferrets develop a tolerance for it and require higher
doses, and that in high doses it can upset the stomach and cause ulcers.
 
It's generally effective, inexpensive, and has low incidence of side
effects. That is why it is used so often.
 
Linda Iroff
Oberlin, OH
[Posted in FML issue 2826]