Question

When preparing discharge teaching for a patient who has been prescribed ibuprofen for arthritis, how does the nurse explain the mode of action?

a. "Ibuprofen is a COX-2 inhibitor so it blocks prostaglandin synthesis."
b. "Ibuprofen inhibits prostaglandin synthesis."
c. "Ibuprofen binds with opioid receptor sites."
d. "Ibuprofen promotes dilatation to increase blood flow."

Answer 1

Ibuprofen inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins by blocking the COX enzyme, which helps to relieve inflammation and reduce pain associated with arthritis.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins by blocking the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme.

Prostaglandins are substances that cause inflammation and pain when tissues are injured. Ibuprofen inhibits the production of prostaglandins by binding with the COX enzyme, preventing the conversion of arachidonic acid into prostaglandins.

By blocking prostaglandin synthesis, ibuprofen helps to relieve inflammation and reduce pain associated with arthritis.