The role of NSAIDs and selective Cyclooxigenase II inhibitors in the treatment and chemo prevention of cancer

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this article is to carry out a literature review about the role of the Cyclooxigenase 2, COX2 inhibitors in cancer treatment and prevention.

Data source: A search was carried out in the Medline articles, including topics related to the use of NSAIDs, specifically the Cox-2, Coxibs inhibitors in cancer treatment and prevention.

Results: 350 trials were obtained, of which 60 were selected because those were the ones with the best evidence. Coxibs inhibit the production of cytokines and proangiogenic factors that allow growth and development of the tumour cells. Compared to the conventional NSAIDs, these substances have broader safety profile, this is translated in less secondary effects and less rates of treatment discontinuation.

Synthesis: The trials show evidence that the NSAIDs may play an important role in cancer prevention and treatment. Nevertheless, the exact timing for supplying them has not been established, and, in the specific case of prevention, at what age should the therapy start.

Conclusion: There is an over-expression of the enzyme cyclooxigenease-2 by the tumour cell, hence its importance in the development of pre-malignant and malignant cells. Thus, cyclooxigenase-2 may be considered a therapeutic target in cancer prevention.