Benefits of NSAIDs in ankylosing spondylitis

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

A comparison shows that taking anti-inflammatory drugs continuously rather than as needed is better in ankylosing spondylitis.
A widely under-recognized form of arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic and progressive disease which affects the spinal joints. It is more likely to affect younger people and can lead to spinal fusion and organ damage.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to treat AS but doctors tend to advise they be taken only when needed. This is because of fears of gastro-intestinal side effects. A trial of patients with AS in France compares treatment with NSAIDs continuously - twice a day - with treatment for symptoms. There was no difference between the two groups in symptom improvement or side effects.

But X-rays showed less progression of the disease among those on continuous treatment. This suggests that NSAIDs - celecoxib was used in this study - do more than just treat symptoms. They can actually modify the course of the disease. The results need confirmation but suggests that doctors may need to change the way they treat AS.

Source
Arthritis & Rheumatism June 2005

Please take a moment to give us your comments. For questions about Health matters you may check our "Questions & Answers" Portal and Service.