Final answer:
COX-2 inhibitors, such as celecoxib, may have fewer gastric side effects than non-selective NSAIDs, but they come with serious side effects including increased risks of heart attack, stroke, various cancers, gall bladder disease, and possibly depression or dementia.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question refers to the benefits and side effects associated with COX-2 inhibitors, a class of drugs used to reduce pain and inflammation. It is understood that COX-2 inhibitors like celecoxib (Celebrex) were developed to decrease gastric side effects commonly linked to non-selective NSAIDs, aiming for fewer stomach problems. However, the use of COX-2 inhibitors is associated with its own range of negative side effects.
The negative side effects of COX-2 inhibitors include an increased risk of stroke or heart attack, blood clots, various types of cancer such as breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and endometrial cancer. They can also contribute to gall bladder disease and potentially lead to issues like depression or dementia. Due to these significant risks, it is important for patients to discuss the use of these medications with their healthcare provider to ensure these drugs are appropriate for their clinical situation.