Pharmacology · single question
The mechanism of action of celecoxib (for osteoarthritis) is:
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Selective COX-2 inhibitor
- A. Incorrect. 5-Lipoxygenase inhibitors (zileuton) target the leukotriene pathway — not celecoxib's MOA.
- B. Incorrect. Irreversible COX inhibition is the MOA of ASPIRIN — not celecoxib. Celecoxib's inhibition is reversible.
- C. Correct. Celecoxib (Celebrex) is a SELECTIVE COX-2 INHIBITOR. COX-2 is the inducible isoform primarily responsible for prostaglandin production during INFLAMMATION. By selectively blocking COX-2 (while sparing COX-1), celecoxib reduces inflammation and pain with less GI side effects than non-selective NSAIDs.
- D. Incorrect. Phospholipase A2 inhibition is the MOA of CORTICOSTEROIDS — not celecoxib.