COX-2

Medical abbreviation · Drug Class

COX-2
Stands forCyclooxygenase-2 selective inhibitor
CategoriesMedical

COX-2 stands for Cyclooxygenase-2 selective inhibitor, a drug class abbreviation.

NSAIDs that preferentially block the COX-2 enzyme involved in inflammation while sparing COX-1, which protects the stomach lining. Celecoxib (Celebrex) is the only one still sold in the US.

Example: Hx GI bleed: COX-2 inhibitor celecoxib 100 mg BID plus PPI for hip OA.

Usage notes

Rofecoxib (Vioxx) was withdrawn worldwide in 2004 after a trial showed an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, and valdecoxib followed in 2005. The PRECISION trial (2016) found celecoxib at moderate doses no riskier for the heart than ibuprofen or naproxen. Often written "COX-2 inhibitor" or "coxib".

More drug class abbreviations

  • BZRA – Benzodiazepine receptor agonist
  • CAI – Carbonic anhydrase inhibitor
  • CCB – Calcium channel blocker
  • CDK4/6i – Cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitor
  • CNI – Calcineurin inhibitor
  • COC – Combined oral contraceptive
  • DHP – Dihydropyridine
  • DMARD – Disease-modifying antirheumatic drug
  • DOAC – Direct oral anticoagulant
  • DORA – Dual orexin receptor antagonist
  • DPP-4i – Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor
  • DRI – Direct renin inhibitor

See all 113 drug class abbreviations →

Edited by the AbbreviationList.com team. Spotted an error or a missing meaning? Contact us.

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.