FDA Orders Label Changes: Epidural Corticosteroid Injection Warning

You may have noticed that it takes A LOT for the FDA to change the warning on a drug.  However, on April 23rd of this year the FDA did just that on the injections of corticosteroids into the epidural space of the spine. This has been a widespread practice for several decades; however, the effectiveness and safety of the drugs for this type of use have not been established, and FDA has not approved corticosteroids for such use.
These injections are typically given to treat neck and back pain that radiates into the extremities.  The warning the FDA posted suggested that these injections may result in rare, but serious adverse reactions including, loss of vision, paralysis, stoke, and death.
For now, the FDA has issued the warning on the use of these drugs when injected into the spine.  And in order to address this further, they have put together a panel of experts to help define how these techniques can be used and reduce preventable harm.  They will release these recommendations when they are finalized.
Until then, if this procedure is recommended for you, you may want to discuss all your treatment options thoroughly with your healthcare provider.
At Smith Family Chiropractic, we can help you sort through all of your pain management options as well.  We take a holistic approach and offer excellent chiropractic care that is very safe and effective.  And when that isn't enough, we will help you navigate all the other options available to you!