Hovid Clofenac 50mg Tablet

Hovid Clofenac 50mg Tablet contains Diclofenac Sodium 50mg as its active ingredient, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) from the phenylacetic acid class. It works by inhibiting the cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes responsible for producing prostaglandins, the chemical messengers involved in pain, inflammation and fever, making it effective for relieving pain and reducing inflammation.

This tablet is commonly used for the short-term relief of pain and inflammation associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, acute musculoskeletal injuries, and postoperative pain. As an oral NSAID that carries recognised gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and kidney-related risks and requires an assessment of suitability based on a patient’s medical history and other medicines used, Hovid Clofenac 50mg Tablet is classified as a prescription-only medicine in Malaysia, and a doctor’s prescription or online consultation through DoctorOnCall is required before it can be dispensed.

Diclofenac works by blocking the cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, reducing the body’s production of prostaglandins; because prostaglandins drive pain signalling, swelling and the inflammatory response, lowering their production helps relieve pain and reduce inflammation in conditions affecting the joints, muscles and soft tissues.

Hovid Clofenac 50mg Tablet should be taken by mouth exactly as prescribed by your doctor, generally with food or a full glass of water to reduce the chance of stomach irritation, and swallowed whole without crushing or chewing; it should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed to control symptoms.

The dose and duration of treatment with Hovid Clofenac 50mg Tablet will be determined by your doctor based on the condition being treated, its severity, and your individual risk factors; long-term continuous use is generally avoided unless specifically directed by your doctor, and the dose should not be adjusted or the treatment period extended without medical advice.

Hovid Clofenac 50mg Tablet should be used before the expiry date printed on the blister strip or carton, and discarded if expired or if the tablets show visible signs of damage or discolouration.

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

• Known hypersensitivity to diclofenac, aspirin or other NSAIDs, including a history of NSAID-induced asthma, urticaria or allergic reactions
• Active peptic ulcer disease or history of gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation
• Severe heart failure, ischaemic heart disease, or history of stroke
• Severe kidney or liver impairment
• Third trimester of pregnancy
• Use immediately before or after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery

• Other NSAIDs or aspirin, which increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration
• Anticoagulants such as warfarin, which may increase bleeding risk
• ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, or diuretics, which may reduce kidney function and blood pressure control when combined with an NSAID
• Corticosteroids, which further increase the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration
• Lithium and methotrexate, as diclofenac may increase their blood levels and toxicity
• Alcohol, which can increase the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding

• Take with food or milk to reduce the chance of stomach irritation
• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest period needed to control your symptoms
• Avoid combining with other NSAIDs or aspirin unless directed by your doctor
• Stop use and seek medical attention if you notice black stools, vomiting blood, chest pain, or severe stomach pain
• Tell your doctor about any history of stomach ulcers, heart disease, kidney disease, or high blood pressure before starting treatment
• Attend follow-up appointments if long-term use is being considered, so your doctor can monitor for side effects

As an oral NSAID, Hovid Clofenac 50mg Tablet carries a recognised risk of gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and kidney-related side effects, particularly with higher doses, prolonged use, or in patients with existing risk factors; your doctor will weigh these risks against the expected benefit and may recommend periodic review if ongoing treatment is required.