Cyclooxygenase inhibitor

Cyclooxygenase inhibitors (pronunciation: sy-klo-ox-i-je-nase in-hib-i-tors) are a type of drug that reduces the production of prostaglandins by inhibiting the action of the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX).

Etymology

The term "Cyclooxygenase inhibitor" is derived from the name of the enzyme it inhibits, cyclooxygenase. The prefix "cyclo-" comes from the Greek "kyklos", meaning circle or wheel, referring to the circular molecular structure of the enzyme. "Oxygenase" refers to the enzyme's ability to incorporate oxygen into its substrates. The term "inhibitor" comes from the Latin "inhibere", meaning to restrain or stop, referring to the drug's ability to prevent the enzyme from functioning.

Types

There are two main types of cyclooxygenase inhibitors: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and COX-2 inhibitors. NSAIDs inhibit both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, while COX-2 inhibitors selectively inhibit the COX-2 enzyme.

Uses

Cyclooxygenase inhibitors are commonly used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever. They are also used to prevent blood clots in patients at risk of heart attack or stroke.

Side Effects

Common side effects of cyclooxygenase inhibitors include gastrointestinal problems, such as stomach ulcers and bleeding, kidney damage, and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Cyclooxygenase inhibitor
Wikipedia's article - Cyclooxygenase inhibitor

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Cyclooxygenase inhibitor