Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen work by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) responsible for the synthesis of prostaglandins. In toxicology, these inhibitors are crucial because they help to control pain and inflammation induced by toxic substances. However, chronic use of NSAIDs can lead to toxicity, stressing the importance of understanding their mechanism of action and potential side effects.