Which NSAID preferentially inhibits COX-2 to reduce gastrointestinal side effects?

The correct answer focuses on the NSAID that has a preferential inhibition of COX-2, which is important for minimizing gastrointestinal side effects. COX-2 is primarily expressed at sites of inflammation and is responsible for producing substances that promote pain and inflammation, while COX-1 plays a role in protecting the stomach lining and maintaining normal gastrointestinal function.

Deracoxib is specifically designed to selectively inhibit COX-2, leading to effective management of pain and inflammation with a lower risk of causing gastrointestinal problems that are commonly associated with non-selective NSAIDs. This selectivity helps to minimize adverse effects such as gastric ulcers or bleeding that can occur when COX-1 is inhibited.

Other NSAIDs listed, such as carprofen and meloxicam, do have some selective COX-2 activity but are not as exclusively targeted as deracoxib. Phenylbutazone, on the other hand, is a non-selective NSAID associated with higher risks of gastrointestinal side effects due to its inhibition of both COX-1 and COX-2. Thus, the preference for COX-2 inhibition by deracoxib makes it the choice with the least potential for gastrointestinal complications in veterinary applications.