A second analysis by Dr. Gensler and her associates used data from the same cohort but focused on new bone formation during follow-up. This analysis again showed a statistically significant, 72% reduction in this outcome among patients taking a TNF inhibitor at baseline, compared with those not on a TNF inhibitor, when followed for 2.1-3.5 years, with no statistically significant relationship seen among patients followed for less or more time, Dr. Gensler reported. However, the results from this analysis also showed a statistically significant impact from NSAID treatment: Patients on a TNF inhibitor and an NSAID at baseline had 67% less new bone formation, compared with those who received a TNF inhibitor but were not on an NSAID at baseline.
Dr. Gensler has been a consultant to or investigator funded by AbbVie, Amgen, Janssen, Novartis, and UCB. The Prospective Study of Outcomes in Ankylosing Spondylitis receives no commercial support.
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