How to treat ankylosing spondylitis with medicine?

The spine is one of the most important bones. It plays an important role and is the main supporting bone for people. The inside of the spine is a hollow structure with a long and narrow passage that goes straight to the brain. This is the exclusive space for the spinal cord. Therefore, the importance of the spine is very important. Problems with the spine often affect the spinal cord. For example, ankylosing spondylitis is a disease with a relatively large impact and it also has certain genetic characteristics. People with this disease will suffer from irregular attacks. It is very painful and difficult to treat. Let’s take a look at how to treat ankylosing spondylitis with medication.

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a disease characterized by inflammation of the sacroiliac joints and spinal attachment points. Strong association with HLA-B27. Some microorganisms (eg, Klebsiella) share common antigens with the susceptible person's own tissues and can trigger an abnormal immune response. It is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by fibrosis and ossification of the large joints of the limbs, the annulus fibrosus of the intervertebral disc and its surrounding connective tissue, and ankylosis of the joints.

(1) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and stiffness and muscle spasm relieving effects. Side effects include gastrointestinal reactions, kidney damage, prolonged bleeding time, etc. Pregnant and lactating women should pay special attention.

(2) Sulfasalazine is an azo compound of 5-aminosalicylic acid and sulfapyridine, which has been used to treat AS since the 1980s. The main side effects are gastrointestinal symptoms, rash, changes in blood count and liver function, but they are rare. It is advisable to check blood count and liver and kidney function regularly during medication.

(3) Methotrexate is reported to have efficacy similar to that of SSZ. Oral and intravenous administration are similar in efficacy. Side effects include gastrointestinal reactions, bone marrow suppression, stomatitis, hair loss, etc. Check liver function and blood count regularly during medication and avoid drinking alcohol.

(4) Adrenal cortical hormones are generally not used to treat AS, but when NSAIDs are ineffective in treating acute iritis or peripheral arthritis, CS can be injected locally or taken orally.

(5) Tripterygium wilfordii glycosides have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects and are easy to take. Side effects include gastrointestinal reactions, leukopenia, menstrual disorders and decreased sperm motility, which can be recovered after stopping the drug.

(6) Biological agents such as tumor necrosis factor antagonists are currently the best choice for the treatment of AS and other spinal and joint diseases, and should be chosen as much as possible if conditions permit.