The article provides a comprehensive overview of the role of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in various physiological processes and diseases. COX, the enzyme responsible for converting arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, has two isoforms: COX-1 and COX-2. COX-1 is constitutively expressed in many tissues, while COX-2 is inducible in response to various stimuli. The authors discuss the diverse functions of COX-1 and COX-2, including their roles in inflammation, pain, gastrointestinal integrity, bone metabolism, and disease processes such as cancer and Alzheimer's disease. They highlight the therapeutic benefits and side effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which primarily target COX-2, and the potential of selective COX-2 inhibitors to reduce these side effects. The article also explores the potential of COX-2 inhibitors in treating inflammatory diseases and cancer, emphasizing the need for further research to fully understand the mechanisms involved.The article provides a comprehensive overview of the role of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in various physiological processes and diseases. COX, the enzyme responsible for converting arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, has two isoforms: COX-1 and COX-2. COX-1 is constitutively expressed in many tissues, while COX-2 is inducible in response to various stimuli. The authors discuss the diverse functions of COX-1 and COX-2, including their roles in inflammation, pain, gastrointestinal integrity, bone metabolism, and disease processes such as cancer and Alzheimer's disease. They highlight the therapeutic benefits and side effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which primarily target COX-2, and the potential of selective COX-2 inhibitors to reduce these side effects. The article also explores the potential of COX-2 inhibitors in treating inflammatory diseases and cancer, emphasizing the need for further research to fully understand the mechanisms involved.