Meloxicam-a safer NSAID?
Relevant BNF section: 10.1.1.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) block the enzyme cyclo-oxygenase (COX), thereby reducing the synthesis of prostaglandins from arachidonic acid. This blockade is believed to be responsible for both the therapeutic (anti-inflammatory) and many of the unwanted effects of NSAIDs.1 It is now recognised that COX exists in two functionally distinct isoforms: COX-1 is active continuously and catalyses the synthesis of prostaglandins with physiologically protective effects (e.g. on the gastric mucosa), while COX-2 is induced during inflammation.2,3 
Meloxicam (Mobic - Boehringer Ingelheim), which has been available in the UK for 2 years, is marketed as an NSAID with "COX-2 selectivity" in vitro, and so one which "in theory...should have a better GI side-effect profile". Is meloxicam an advance on traditional NSAIDs?
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This article has been cited by other articles:
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Dickman, A., Ellershaw, J.
(2004). For Discussion NSAIDs: gastroprotection or selective COX-2 inhibitor?. Palliat Med
18: 275-286
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