Practical implications of cyclooxygenase-2--specific inhibitors in orthopedics

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) lead to severe and unpredictable side effects that are costly for individuals and the economy overall. As baby boomers enter their osteoarthritis years, there will be an increasing demand for safe and effective arthritis therapies. Animal and human data suggest that celecoxib, a cyclooxygenase-2-specific inhibitor, will provide an efficacious treatment without the side effects of conventional NSAIDs. Clinicians will need to determine individually and collegially how best to incorporate this new class of drugs into comprehensive treatment algorithms.