What are COX-2 inhibitors?
Q: What are COX-2 inhibitors?
A: COX-2 inhibitors are a specific type of analgesic that only block the COX-2 enzyme responsible for inflammation and pain.
Q: What is the difference between COX-1 and COX-2?
A: COX-1 is an enzyme that regulates kidney function and can cause stomach bleeding if blocked. COX-2, on the other hand, is an enzyme that starts inflammation and pain.
Q: How do NSAIDs work?
A: NSAIDs work by blocking COX enzymes to reduce inflammation and pain.
Q: What is the risk of blocking COX-1?
A: Blocking COX-1 can increase the risk of bleeding of the stomach and reduction of kidney function.
Q: What are the side-effects of COX-2 inhibitors?
A: COX-2 inhibitors have been shown to increase the risk of a heart attack and stroke, which has led to some of them being taken off the market.
Q: What other conditions have COX-2 inhibitors been used in the treatment of?
A: COX-2 inhibitors have been used in the treatment of cancer, depression, and schizophrenia.
Q: Are COX-2 inhibitors available over-the-counter?
A: COX-2 inhibitors are only available with a prescription due to their severe side-effects.
