NSAIDs may slow negative effects of ankylosing spondylitis on spine
American healthcare patients trying to save money on their medical bills may find relief if they buy their prescription and over the counter medications through a Canadian internet pharmacy.
American healthcare patients trying to save money on their medical bills may find relief if they buy their prescription and over the counter medications through a Canadian internet pharmacy. Medical researchers are finding novel uses for preexisting drugs, including common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). A new study suggests that NSAIDs may help protect the spine from the progressing symptoms of a disease known as ankylosing spondylitis, which is characterized by changes in the spine, or joints between the spine and pelvis, that are visible in radiological imaging.
Researchers with the American College of Rheumatology conducted a two-year study in which they monitored 164 patients in various stages of ankylosing spondylitis - 88 subjects had symptoms visible in imaging, while the rest did not. The team collected x-rays that looked for changes such as erosions and abnormal bone growths. Data on the patients' use of NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen were also collected.
Results showed that patients who took higher doses of NSAIDs, defined as more than half of the maximum recommended amount, experienced a slower progression of the disease compared to subjects who took lower doses. However, these results were only observed among patients who had physical symptoms visible in radiological images.
This data suggests that patients who are individually evaluated for high levels of pain and stiffness, as well as risks and benefits, may benefit from a regimen of NSAIDs, according to researcher Denis Poddubnyy, MD, PhD.
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