CMS II Rheumatology E1 Practice Exam 2026 - Free Rheumatology Practice Questions and Study Guide

COX-2 inhibitors were designed to reduce inflammation while sparing most of the protective effects of COX-1 on the stomach lining. Since COX-1 helps maintain the gastric mucosa, inhibiting it broadly with traditional NSAIDs raises the risk of stomach ulcers. By selectively blocking COX-2, these drugs tend to cause fewer GI ulcers than nonselective NSAIDs, making the statement about being less likely to cause stomach ulcers the most accurate in this context.

It’s important to keep in mind that this doesn’t mean there’s no GI risk at all, and these drugs aren’t without other concerns. They do not cure osteoarthritis; they simply help control pain and inflammation. They also carry cardiovascular risks, and they’re not universally preferred for all patients—choices depend on an individual balance of GI risk, cardiovascular risk, kidney function, and other factors.