Steroids are very powerful substances that can decrease inflammation.  Oral steroids deliver medicine to the entire body as well as to the painful spinal condition.  They can have serious side effects especially with prolonged use.  A comprehensive listing of the side effects of steroids is beyond the scope of this article.  Oral steroids can be given in a seven day regimen with the Medrol® Dose Pack (methylprednisolone 4mg tablets) being commonly prescribed as follows: