(TIME) -- A new class of drugs have been developed for the treatment of the pain associated with arthritis. These drugs are called COX-II inhibitors. They appear to be effective in pain relief while having fewer side effects than many other pain relievers available today (such as aspirin & ibuprofin). In the December 14, 1998 issue of Time Magazine, COX-II inhibitors are discussed. If you are interested in additional information, CLICK HERE to be linked to a web article written by Joan M. Bathon, M.D. of the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.