Ankylosing spondylitis refers to a condition in which joint problems exist within the spine and pelvis. MedlinePlus says that symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis include back pain or stiffness, a poor appetite, a fever, weight loss and hip pain. Fortunately, drugs used for ankylosing spondylitis can be used to manage this condition.
Etanercept
Etanercept is a medication that can be taken to manage ankylosing spondylitis. This medication can also be used to manage rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. This medication decreases proteins within the immune system that are responsible for leading to inflammation.
MedlinePlus indicates that etanercept's less-concerning side effects include shortness of breath, burning pain, changes in mood, a cough and flu-like symptoms. Other side effects include a fever and sweating. Notify a physician if etanercept's less-serious effects last for greater than five days.
Etanercept's serious effects include chest pain, numbness, joint pain and shortness of breath. Other side effects include changes in personality, black or bloody stools and seizures. Go to an emergency room when etancercept leads to these effects.
Etanercept is an injection that should be taken daily or as indicated.
Adalimunab
Adalimunab is a medication used to manage ankylosing spondylitis and can also be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and plaque psoriasis. It works to reduce a substance called tumor necrosis factor A that is responsible for leading to inflammation.
Drugs.com indicates that adalimunab's less-concerning side effects include shortness of breath, a cough, a sore throat, weight loss and a fever. This drug can also lead to chills, shortness of breath and sweating. Call a physician if adalimunab's less serious effects remain for more than five days.
Adalimunab's serious effects include chest pain, coughing up blood, yellowing of the skin or eyes, seizure, confusion, easy bleeding or bruising and joint pain. This medication can also lead to weakness, weak legs and numbness or tingling. Call a doctor as soon as this medication leads to these effects.
Adalimunab is given as an injection every other week or as prescribed.
Infliximab
MedlinePlus indicates that infliximab, in addition to ankylosing spondylitis, can be used to manage ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. This medication belongs to a class of drugs called tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitor. This substance is responsible for leading to inflammation.
Infliximab's less-concerning side effects include heartburn, a headache, vaginal itching and a runny nose. It can also lead to nausea, back pain and white patches in the mouth. Call a doctor if infliximab's less-serious effects remain for more than five days.
Infliximab's serious side effects include chest pain, bloody stools, weight gain, blurry vision, a poor appetite and weakness in the arms or legs. This drug can also lead to muscle or joint pain, seizures and yellowing of the skin or eyes. Call a doctor as soon as infliximab leads to these effects.
Infliximab is available as an injection that is administered every two to eight weeks.
