Which outcome is associated with COX-2 inhibition?

Which outcome is associated with COX-2 inhibition?

• A. Increases platelet aggregation
• B. Reduces inflammation
• C. Protects gastric mucosa
• D. Increases mucus production

Answer: (B)

COX-2 is the inducible enzyme that drives the production of inflammatory prostaglandins, such as PGE2, which promote pain, swelling, and redness. When COX-2 is inhibited, these inflammatory mediators decrease, leading to reduced inflammation and symptom relief. This is why COX-2 inhibitors are effective anti-inflammatory agents. In contrast, COX-1 supports gastric mucosal protection and platelet function, so inhibiting COX-2 spares these functions and typically results in less gastric irritation than nonselective NSAIDs. Thus, the outcome most associated with COX-2 inhibition is a reduction in inflammation.

COX-2 is the inducible enzyme that drives the production of inflammatory prostaglandins, such as PGE2, which promote pain, swelling, and redness. When COX-2 is inhibited, these inflammatory mediators decrease, leading to reduced inflammation and symptom relief. This is why COX-2 inhibitors are effective anti-inflammatory agents. In contrast, COX-1 supports gastric mucosal protection and platelet function, so inhibiting COX-2 spares these functions and typically results in less gastric irritation than nonselective NSAIDs. Thus, the outcome most associated with COX-2 inhibition is a reduction in inflammation.