To Art Grondine concerning Azium Art: Sorry to hear about Guy. There is a time and place for everything, and it seems to be Guy's time to move on to the next level. I (and Guy, I'm sure) appreciate your coolheadedness during this time; I know it is a very difficult time for you. Azium is a form of steroid known as dexamethasone. There are various forms of steroids which have different gradations of actions on the body - soem are more effective in raising glucose levels, some are more effective at raising levels of sodium and potassium, etc., not to mention duration of action. Azium is a relatively short-acting steroid which doesn't have as good a glucose-raising ability as prednisone. However, it is excellent at raising electrolyte levels back to normal ranges and steadying the blood vasculature during times of shock; which is why it is the first choice for animals in shock. Unfortunately, it is relatively short acting - 6-12 hours, and would have to be repeated several times a day. Prednisone (or prednisolone, a closely related steroid) are still the tops for medical maintenance of insulinoma. (But surgery is still better yet!!!) Our hearts are with you in your time of sorrow. Bruce Williams, DVM Department of Veterinary Pathology [log in to unmask] Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (202) 782-2600/2602 Washington, D.C. 20306-6000 [Posted in FML issue 1071]