COX-2 inhibitor

COX-2 inhibitor

A COX-2 inhibitor (pronounced: koks-two in-hib-it-or) is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that directly targets COX-2, an enzyme responsible for inflammation and pain.

Etymology

The term "COX-2 inhibitor" is derived from the abbreviation for cyclooxygenase-2, the enzyme that these drugs inhibit.

Function

COX-2 inhibitors work by reducing the production of prostaglandins, chemicals that promote inflammation, pain, and fever. Unlike traditional NSAIDs, COX-2 inhibitors do not inhibit the COX-1 enzyme, which protects the stomach lining from harmful stomach acids. As a result, COX-2 inhibitors are less likely to cause the gastrointestinal bleeding associated with traditional NSAIDs.

Examples

Examples of COX-2 inhibitors include celecoxib (Celebrex), etoricoxib (Arcoxia), and rofecoxib (Vioxx). Rofecoxib was withdrawn from the market in 2004 due to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

Side Effects

While COX-2 inhibitors are less likely to cause gastrointestinal problems than traditional NSAIDs, they can still cause some side effects. These may include stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, gas, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. In rare cases, COX-2 inhibitors can cause serious side effects like heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, heart failure, and kidney or liver problems.

Related Terms

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
• Prostaglandins
• Celecoxib
• Etoricoxib
• Rofecoxib

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on COX-2 inhibitor
• Wikipedia's article - COX-2 inhibitor

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