What are COX-2 inhibitors used for?

COX-2 inhibitors are primarily used to reduce pain and inflammation, particularly in conditions such as osteoarthritis. These medications work by selectively inhibiting the cyclooxygenase-2 enzyme, which plays a key role in the inflammatory process and pain signaling pathways. By blocking this specific enzyme, COX-2 inhibitors help relieve the symptoms of inflammation and pain that are commonly associated with osteoarthritis, making them an effective treatment option for individuals suffering from this degenerative joint disease.

In the context of other choices, managing blood glucose levels relates to diabetic medications, dilating bronchial smooth muscle pertains to bronchodilators used in conditions like asthma, and treating hypertension typically involves a different class of medications such as ACE inhibitors or beta-blockers. This clearly delineates the role of COX-2 inhibitors in pain and inflammation management specifically.