COX-2 inhibitors celecoxib and parecoxib: valuable options for postoperative pain management.

COX-2 inhibitors are equally as efficacious as the non-selective NSAIDs for the treatment of postoperative pain, but have the advantages of a better gastrointestinal side-effect profile as well as a lack of antiplatelet effects. There have been recent concerns regarding the cardiovascular side effects of COX-2 inhibitors. Nonetheless, they remain a valuable option for postoperative pain management. The pharmacology of these agents and available studies are reviewed.