Prostaglandins

Prostaglandins are a family of chemicals that are produced by the cells of the body and have several important functions. They promote inflammation that is necessary for healing, but also results in pain, and fever; support the blood clotting function of platelets; and protect the lining of the stomach from the damaging effects of acid.

Prostaglandins are produced within the body's cells by the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX). There are two COX enzymes, COX-1 and COX-2. Both enzymes produce prostaglandins that promote inflammation, pain, and fever. However, only COX-1 produces prostaglandins that support platelets and protect the stomach. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) block the COX enzymes and reduce prostaglandins throughout the body. As a consequence, ongoing inflammation, pain, and fever are reduced. Since the prostaglandins that protect the stomach and support platelets and blood clotting also are reduced, NSAIDs can cause ulcers in the stomach and promote bleeding.

What NSAIDs are approved in the United States?

The following list is an example of NSAIDs available:

• aspirin

• celecoxib (Celebrex)

• diclofenac (Cambia, Cataflam, Voltaren-XR, Zipsor, Zorvolex)

• diflunisal (Dolobid - discontinued brand)

• etodolac (Lodine - discontinued brand)

• ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)

• indomethacin (Indocin)

• ketoprofen (Active-Ketoprofen [Orudis - discontinued brand])

• ketorolac (Toradol - discontinued brand)

• nabumetone (Relafen - discontinued brand)

• naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox, Naprelan, Naprosyn)

• oxaprozin (D...

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