Q: I am 34 years old suffering from ankylosing spondylitis since 7-8 years but came to know about it only 3 years back. I used to take Piroxicam 20mg on SOS basis (earlier once in a week now twice in a week). I also do some back/leg exercises. Presently I have pain in my neck, back, chest, hips. Yesterday I consulted a doctor who gave me Plaquenil (Hydroxichloroquine sulphate) 200 mg, Salazopyrin EN 500 mg and Olfen 100 (diclofenac sodium). Please suggest.

A:As far as it is known, hydroxychloroquine has not been shown to have any beneficial effect in ankylosing spondylitis. Similarly, sulfasalazine is of little use in a late case of ankylosing spondylitis as yours unless you have had attacks of acute iridocyclitis, one of the complications of ankylosing spondylitis. I strongly recommend that you consult a rheumatologist for proper opinion and advice.