Best treatments for ankylosing spondylitis

Understanding ankylosing spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis that causes inflammation in the spine and in the joints between the spine and the pelvis. Over time, the inflammation can cause the vertebrae (the bones of the spine) to fuse (grow together), which limits movement and can lead to a rigid spine and a hunched posture. It usually starts before age 45, and early symptoms often begin between the ages of 15 and 30; AS is more common and more severe in men. Having a family member with AS raises your risk, as do conditions such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or psoriasis, and carrying the HLA-B27 gene—although many people who have the gene never develop AS. The most common symptom is pain and stiffness in the lower back and/or hips; the pain typically worsens during periods of rest or inactivity, while moving and exercise can help improve it. Other features can include inflammation in other joints, eye inflammation (uveitis), fatigue, and difficulty taking deep breaths if the joints connecting the ribs are affected. There is no single test for AS; to diagnose it, a clinician asks about your medical history and family history, does a physical exam, and may order blood tests or imaging studies. There is no cure for AS, but there are many treatment options to help relieve symptoms, maintain posture, and slow down the disease, along with exercise and physical or occupational therapy. This is general information, not medical advice; talk with a qualified healthcare professional about your own situation.

Frequently asked

What treats ankylosing spondylitis?

Our catalog lists 26 products that may treat ankylosing spondylitis, based on NIH RxClass (MED-RT “may treat”) drug-classification data — not the verbatim FDA label. They're rated where FDA recall-safety data exists; the current top-rated option is amjevita.

What is the best-rated treatment for ankylosing spondylitis?

By our independent recall-safety rating — not an efficacy measure — amjevita ranks highest among the products we list for ankylosing spondylitis. Always consult a professional.

How are these treatments ranked?

By our independent score, currently based on FDA regulatory recall-safety data (the methodology blends additional sources as they come online). See the How we rate page.

What types of drugs treat ankylosing spondylitis?

Treatments for ankylosing spondylitis span FDA drug classes including tumor necrosis factor blocker, interleukin-17a antagonist, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Compare every option side by side, ranked by independent rating, above.

Treatment associations are derived from NIH RxClass (MED-RT “may treat”) drug-classification data — not the verbatim FDA label. This is general reference, not medical advice — always consult a licensed professional.