Editing Cyclooxygenase (section)

=== Classical NSAIDs ===

{{See also|Mechanism of action of aspirin}}
The main COX inhibitors are the [[non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug]]s.

The classical COX inhibitors are not selective and inhibit all types of COX. The resulting inhibition of [[prostaglandin]] and [[thromboxane]] synthesis has the effect of reduced inflammation, as well as antipyretic, antithrombotic and analgesic effects. The most frequent adverse effect of NSAIDs is irritation of the gastric mucosa as prostaglandins normally have a protective role in the gastrointestinal tract. Some NSAIDs are also acidic which may cause additional damage to the gastrointestinal tract.