What Are COX-2 Inhibitors?

Definition: COX-2 inhibitors are a class of drugs which selectively inhibit COX-2, an enzyme involved in the inflammation pathway, while sparing COX-1, thereby reducing gastrointestinal toxicity. COX-2 selective inhibitors are the newest of the NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

In April 2005, The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced actions which will be taken regarding the marketing of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). The actions include changes for COX-2 inhibitors, as well as prescription and non-prescription (over-the-counter) NSAIDs.

These actions by the FDA follow scrutiny of NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors provoked by the voluntary withdrawal of Vioxx by Merck in September 2004. After analyzing scientific data, including data collected after the drugs were approved, and a joint meeting of the FDA's Arthritis and Drug Safety and Risk Management Advisory Committees held February 16-18, 2005, the FDA made its decision.

COX-2 inhibitor drugs include:
# Celebrex (Celecoxib)
# Vioxx (Rofecoxib)(No longer on market as of September 2004)
# Bextra (Valdecoxib)(No longer on market as of April 2005)

There are also other COX-2 Inhibitors being developed, including:
# Prexige (Lumiracoxib)
# Arcoxia (Etoricoxib)