Oral steroids
Oral steroids, a non-narcotic type of prescription
medication, are very powerful anti-inflammatory medications
that are sometimes an effective treatment for low back
pain. Like narcotics agents, oral steroids are intended
for use for short periods of time (one to two weeks).
Oral steroids come in many forms, but are usually ordered
as a Medrol Dose Pack in which patients starts with
a high dose for initial low back pain relief and then
taper down to a lower dose over five or six days.
When used on a short-term basis, there are generally
few complications associated with oral steroids. There
are, however, a number of potential complications associated
with long-term usage of oral steroids. Adverse side
effects can include weight gain, stomach ulcers, osteoporosis,
collapse of the hip joint, as well as other complications.
It is important to note that diabetics should not use
oral steroids since the medication increases blood sugar.
Steroids should also not be taken by patients with an
active infection (e.g. sinus infection, urinary tract
infection) because they can make the infection worse.
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