What class of medication is typically administered urgently to treat spinal cord compression?

Corticosteroids are the class of medication that is typically administered urgently to treat spinal cord compression. This urgency is due to the need to reduce inflammation and swelling around the spinal cord, which can alleviate pressure and prevent further neurological damage. Corticosteroids help in quickly reducing edema and are well-established in the management of conditions causing spinal cord compression, such as tumor growth or metastatic lesions.

In cases of spinal cord compression, immediate intervention is crucial to preserve neurological function. Corticosteroids can lead to rapid improvement in symptoms and are often employed in clinical practice as a first-line treatment alongside other interventions. Their effectiveness in quickly managing inflammation in the affected area is what makes them the preferred choice in this urgent scenario.