Drugs
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The administration of drugs constitutes an important component of the therapeutic programme in ankylosing spondylitis (AS). The main objective of initiating such therapy is to reduce pain, stiffness and discomfort. There are at present 3 groups of drugs available for the management of AS. ⋯ NSAIDs may be administered pre- and postoperatively to relieve stiffness induced by immobility. Rapid treatment of intervening infections and use of NSAIDs is recommended in AS complicated by renal amyloidosis. During pregnancy and lactation, ibuprofen may be the preferred drug in AS.