Almiral 50mg Tablet

Almiral 50mg Tablet contains diclofenac sodium 50mg, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) belonging to the phenylacetic acid group. It is formulated as a standard-release tablet that helps relieve pain and reduce inflammation by lowering the level of prostaglandins in the body, the chemical substances responsible for triggering pain, swelling, and redness at an injured or inflamed site.

In Malaysia, Almiral 50mg Tablet is classified as a Poison List C medicine, meaning it can be purchased over the counter without a doctor’s prescription but only under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. It is commonly used for joint pain, muscle pain, and back pain, as well as for the pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, sprains, strains, and minor soft-tissue injuries.

Diclofenac works by blocking the cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes that are needed to produce prostaglandins, the substances that cause pain, swelling, and inflammation in the body. By reducing prostaglandin production, Almiral helps ease joint and muscle discomfort, reduce swelling, and improve movement in affected areas.

Almiral 50mg Tablet should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water, preferably with or right after food to reduce the chance of stomach irritation. Unless a pharmacist advises otherwise, the tablet should be taken with meals and doses should be spaced evenly through the day for consistent pain relief.

The usual adult dose is one 50mg tablet taken two to three times a day, up to a maximum of 150mg in 24 hours, or as advised by a pharmacist or doctor. Lower doses and shorter treatment durations may be recommended for elderly patients or those with a history of stomach problems, and the lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest time needed to control symptoms.

Almiral 50mg Tablet generally has a shelf life of up to 3 years from the date of manufacture when unopened and stored correctly, and the exact expiry date is printed on the blister strip and outer carton.

Store Almiral 50mg Tablet below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture, and keep it in its original packaging out of the reach and sight of children.

• Active or history of peptic ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding
• Known hypersensitivity to diclofenac, aspirin, or other NSAIDs, including asthma, wheezing, or hives triggered by these medicines
• Severe heart failure, kidney impairment, or liver impairment
• Third trimester of pregnancy
• Active, uncontrolled bleeding disorders
• History of NSAID-related gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation

• Increased bleeding risk when taken with anticoagulants such as warfarin
• Increased risk of stomach irritation and bleeding when combined with other NSAIDs, aspirin, or corticosteroids
• May reduce the effectiveness of ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and diuretics, and increase the risk of kidney impairment when combined
• May raise blood levels of methotrexate or lithium when taken together
• Increased risk of kidney problems when combined with ciclosporin
• Alcohol may increase the risk of stomach irritation during treatment

• Take Almiral with food to reduce the chance of stomach upset
• Do not exceed the maximum daily dose of 150mg unless advised by a pharmacist or doctor
• Avoid taking with other NSAIDs or aspirin unless directed
• Stop use and seek medical advice if you notice black stools, vomiting blood, or persistent stomach pain
• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed to control symptoms
• Consult a pharmacist before use if you have a history of stomach ulcers, heart disease, high blood pressure, or kidney problems

Almiral 50mg Tablet is a Poison List C medicine in Malaysia, dispensed over the counter by a registered pharmacist rather than requiring a doctor’s prescription. Pharmacist counselling helps confirm the medicine is appropriate, particularly for people with existing stomach, heart, kidney, or liver conditions, or those on regular medications such as blood thinners or blood pressure treatment.

If joint, muscle, or back pain continues for more than a few days despite treatment, or is accompanied by swelling, fever, or reduced range of motion, a doctor should be consulted to assess the underlying cause rather than relying on self-medication for an extended period.