Alclofenac in ankylosing spondylitis

Eighteen patients with definite ankylosing spondylitis were treated with 3 to 4 g. alclofenac daily for up to 8 months in an open trial against previous therapy. Therapeutic efficacy was greater than or equivalent to previous therapy in 10 of 18 patients after 1 month and 8 patients remain on alclofenac. There was a significant increase in symptoms, particularly morning stiffness after 1 month, but they tended to improve with time. Measurement of spinal movements was not found useful. Side-effects were commoner than expected but not serious. Alclofenac may prove a useful alternative drug in the management of ankylosing spondylitis and further trials are indicated.