<p>Nabumetone is a naphthylalkanone. Is is a non-selective prostaglandin G/H synthase (a.k.a. cyclooxygenase or COX) inhibitor that acts on both prostaglandin G/H synthase 1 and 2 (COX-1 and -2). Prostaglandin G/H synthase catalyzes the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandin G2 and prostaglandin G2 to prostaglandin H2. Prostaglandin H2 is the precursor to a number of prostaglandins involved in fever, pain, swelling, inflammation, and platelet aggregation. The parent compound is a prodrug that undergoes hepatic biotransformation to the active compound, 6-methoxy-2-naphthylacetic acid (6MNA). The analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory effects of NSAIDs occur as a result of decreased prostaglandin synthesis.<br />
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The parent compound is a prodrug, which undergoes hepatic biotransformation to the active component, 6-methoxy-2-naphthylacetic acid (6MNA), that is a potent inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis, most likely through binding to the COX-2 and COX-1 receptors.</p>