Cyclooxygenase inhibition refers to the blockade of the cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2), which are crucial in the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, leading to reduced inflammation, pain, and fever. This mechanism is the basis for the action of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and selective COX-2 inhibitors, which are used to treat various inflammatory conditions, but may also cause gastrointestinal and cardiovascular side effects.