The invention describes novel cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) selective
inhibitors having at least one oxime group or hydrazone group and novel
compositions comprising at least one cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) selective
inhibitor having at least one oxime group or hydrazone group, and,
optionally, at least one compound that donates, transfers or releases
nitric oxide, stimulates endogenous synthesis of nitric oxide, elevates
endogenous levels of endothelium-derived relaxing factor or is a
substrate for nitric oxide synthase, and/or at least one therapeutic
agent. The invention also provides novel kits comprising at least one
COX-2 selective inhibitor having at least one oxime group or hydrazone
group, optionally nitrosated and/or nitrosylated, and, optionally, at
least one nitric oxide donor, and/or, optionally, at least one
therapeutic agent. The novel cyclooxygenase 2 selective inhibitors of the
invention having at least one oxime group or hydrazone group can be
optionally nitrosated and/or nitrosylated. The invention also provides
methods for treating inflammation, pain and fever; for treating and/or
improving the gastrointestinal properties of COX-2 selective inhibitors;
for facilitating wound healing; for treating and/or preventing renal
and/or respiratory toxicity; for treating and/or preventing other
disorders resulting from elevated levels of cyclooxygenase-2; and for
improving the cardiovascular profile of COX-2 selective inhibitors.