1a

1a.) The COX-2 inhibitors Celecoxib (Celebrex) and Rofecoxib (Vioxx) are in anti-

inflammatory drugs that have a reduced risk of stomach bleeding compared to that

associated with aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Rofecoxib, and to a lesser degree Celecoxib, also partially inhibit the activity of

prostacyclin synthase. What is the biochemical basis for celecoxib's reduced risk of

stomach bleeding and its selective inhibition of Cox two compared to NSAIDs?

1b.) Why would increase risk of blood clots be associated with Rofecoxib treatment?