COX-2 Inhibitors

COX-2 inhibitors are a relatively new type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain and inflammation by blocking a specific enzyme (COX-2) in the body. COX-2 inhibitors are less likely to cause gastrointestinal problems or bleeding than traditional NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin or ibuprofen) and may be a safer alternative for certain patients. However, because COX-2 inhibitors do not inhibit blood clotting (thin the blood), as do other NSAIDs — especially aspirin — they should not replace aspirin as a heart treatment.

COX-2 inhibitors include:

• Celecoxib (Celebrex®)
• Rofecoxib
• Valdecoxib (Bextra®)