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Medication for Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis (A.S.) is a form of arthritis that affects the spine, according to the Spondylitis Association of America (SSA). A.S. causes inflammation in the vertebrae, leading to severe, chronic pain.

  1. Treatment Goals

    • A.S. has no cure. The goal of treatment is to reduce pain and control inflammation.

    First-Line Treatment

    • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen are the first choice for treating A.S., according to the SSA. COX-2 inhibitors, such as celecoxib, are also used early in treatment.

    Advanced Treatment

    • Disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), such as sulfasalazine, methotrexate and corticosteroids, treat more advanced cases of A.S. Newer agents called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors, such as etanercept, infliximab and adalimumab, effectively relieve symptoms.

    Side Effects

    • NSAIDs are associated with gastrointestinal discomfort. DMARDs may cause headaches, nausea, bloating and mouth ulcers. TNF inhibitors increase the risk of infection, particularly tuberculosis, and may possibly increase the risk of cancer.

    Alternative Therapies

    • Exercise, massage, acupuncture, heat and cold therapy, chiropractic treatment, yoga and electrical nerve stimulation may also be effective when used along with medication, according to SSA.

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