COX-2, or cyclooxygenase-2, is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the inflammatory process. It is responsible for producing prostaglandins, which are compounds that promote inflammation, pain, and fever in response to injury or infection. Unlike its counterpart, COX-1, which is involved in protecting the stomach lining and maintaining kidney function, COX-2 is primarily expressed during inflammatory conditions. COX-2 is a target for certain medications known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which aim to reduce pain and inflammation. Selective COX-2 inhibitors, such as celecoxib, are designed to minimize gastrointestinal side effects associated with traditional NSAIDs by specifically blocking the COX-2 enzyme while sparing COX-1.