If a patient with rheumatoid arthritis takes NSAIDs long-term, which outcome is most likely regarding inflammatory pathways?

💡 Explanation

NSAIDs inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, preventing prostaglandin synthesis. Because NSAIDs non-selectively block both COX-1 and COX-2, prostaglandin production shifts away from inflammatory pathways towards those promoting homeostatic functions like gastric protection and renal blood flow. Therefore, option C is correct, rather than the other options which represent alternative inflammatory responses or complete suppression, which is not typically achieved with NSAIDs alone.

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