Disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
Disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, or DMARDs as they are also known, are a type of medication that may be prescribed to treat the peripheral symptoms of AS. Examples of DMARDs include sulfasalazine and methotrexate and they may also be prescribed at the same time as an NSAID.
These drugs might have positive effects on AS symptoms in some people. It can take a number of months for these drugs to work and they are not usually chosen as a first treatment for AS.
DMARDs are generally taken by mouth, but some forms can be given via a subcutaneous injection (an injection just under the skin).
Close monitoring by your healthcare professional is required while you are on some DMARDs, which may include regular blood tests.
Potential side effects of DMARDs include diarrhoea, nausea, skin rash, mouth sores, changes to liver function and hair loss. As side effects are specific to individual treatments, it is important to check the patient information leaflet for any medication you use or talk to your healthcare team.
PEOPLE TAKING DMARDS WILL OFTEN BE PROVIDED WITH A PATIENT HELD MONITORING CARD TO BE CARRIED AT ALL TIMES