Avoid Diclofenac! - Ministry of health.

The Ministry of Health has warned against self-medicating with pain relievers, particularly Diclofenac.

The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) on Friday, stated that the painkiller should only be dispensed with a prescription.

"The Pharmacy and Poisons Board wishes to draw the attention of the public to the use of 'Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), specifically Diclofenac for pain management," They stated in their statement.

The drug is commonly used as a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory, especially in the treatment of arthritis.

Patients who take systemic Diclofenac on a regular basis, especially at high doses of 150 mg, are at risk of heart attack or stroke, according to the health department.

Patients having a history of heart attack or stroke, heart failure, vascular obstructions, or who have undergone a surgery to clear or bypass such blockages should no longer take the medicine.

Those who have been taking Diclofenac for a long period will need to have their medication assessed by a healthcare practitioner.

Smokers, as well as those with high blood pressure, cholesterol or diabetes, have been advised to seek medical advice first.