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Are these drugs helpful for ankylosing spondylitis?
Question
I am 34 years old suffering from ankylosing spondylitis since 7-8 years but came to know about it only 3 years back. I used to take Piroxicam 20mg on SOS basis (earlier once in a week now twice in a week). I also do some back/leg exercises. Presently I have pain in my neck, back, chest, hips. Yesterday I consulted a doctor who gave me Plaquenil (Hydroxichloroquine sulphate) 200 mg, Salazopyrin EN 500 mg and Olfen 100 (diclofenac sodium). Please suggest.
Expert Answer
A
Dr Anand MalaviyaFeb 03, 2010
Head of the Department of Medicine and Chief of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology Services,
All-India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi Consultant Rheumatologist, 'A&R Clinic'
Visiting Sr. Consultant, Rheumatologist, ISIC Superspeciality Hospital, New Delhi.
All-India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi Consultant Rheumatologist, 'A&R Clinic'
Visiting Sr. Consultant, Rheumatologist, ISIC Superspeciality Hospital, New Delhi.
As far as it is known, hydroxychloroquine has not been shown to have any beneficial effect in ankylosing spondylitis. Similarly, sulfasalazine is of little use in a late case of ankylosing spondylitis as yours unless you have had attacks of acute iridocyclitis, one of the complications of ankylosing spondylitis. I strongly recommend that you consult a rheumatologist for proper opinion and advice.
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