Cox-2 inhibitors and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the treatment of pain in the elderly

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most commonly p rescribed therapies for acute and chronic pain in the elderly. NSAIDs are e ffective in treating many disorders, but their use often is limited by toxi cities, especially gastrointestinal and renal toxicity. COX-2 inhibitors ar e a major therapeutic advance, providing the analgesic and anti-inflammator y activity of NSAIDs, with a significant improvement in gastrointestinal sa fety. These new agents may be ideal therapies for older patients at risk fo r NSAID-related gastrointestinal toxicity.