How do NSAIDs target prostaglandins?
NSAIDs are medications designed to target the COX enzymes that produce prostaglandins. Some of the newer NSAIDs are somewhat selective (Deramaxx (Rx)) and target COX 2 more than COX 1. An NSAID that targets COX 2 helps stop inflammation. The older NSAIDs (aspirin and Rimadyl (Rx)) are less selective, targeting both COX 1 and COX 2, so they decrease beneficial stomach mucus at the same time that they decrease inflammation. In actuality, no NSAID is completely selective for COX 1 or COX 2. This may be good because the latest research suggests the best pain relief may come from products that affect both COX 1 and COX 2.
