COX2selektiivisyys

COX2selektiivisyys refers to the degree to which a drug selectively inhibits the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme over the cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) enzyme. Cyclooxygenase enzymes are involved in the production of prostaglandins, which are lipid compounds that play roles in inflammation, pain, and fever. COX-1 is constitutively expressed in many tissues and is involved in maintaining normal physiological functions, such as protecting the stomach lining and supporting platelet aggregation. COX-2, on the other hand, is primarily induced at sites of inflammation and is responsible for producing prostaglandins that mediate pain and inflammation.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) exert their therapeutic effects by inhibiting COX enzymes. Traditional NSAIDs, like ibuprofen and naproxen, inhibit both COX-1 and COX-2. While this dual inhibition provides pain and inflammation relief, it can also lead to side effects, particularly gastrointestinal issues like ulcers, due to the inhibition of COX-1's protective functions in the stomach.

COX-2 selective inhibitors, often called coxibs, were developed to target COX-2 more specifically, aiming to reduce pain and inflammation while minimizing the gastrointestinal side effects associated with COX-1 inhibition. However, the development and use of COX-2 selective inhibitors have also been associated with concerns regarding cardiovascular risks, suggesting a complex relationship between COX enzyme inhibition and various physiological processes. The degree of COX2selektiivisyys can vary among different drugs, influencing their efficacy and safety profiles.