Mechanisms of action of antiinflammatory drugs.

Many NSAI are potent inhibitors of PGs and this is probably their primary mode of action. Not all patients benefit from such compounds, supporting the concept of subpopulations of arthritics, some of which may derive much benefit from PGs inhibitors. Equally, there are some NSAI, of which benoxaprofen may be one, which do not have PGs inhibition as their major mechanism of action. It would seem sensible to maintain an open mind when looking for novel antiinflammatory compounds, as the clinician has a critical need for "curative" rather than "palliative" therapy.