COX-2 Inhibitors Definition

COX-2 inhibitors are a type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug commonly used in the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. COX-2 inhibitors work by blocking the action of an enzyme called cyclooxygenase-2, which produced prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemical messengers that are often responsible for the pain and swelling of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.

Currently, the only COX-2 inhibitor available in the United States is celecoxib (Celebrex).