The present invention relates to melt granulated pharmaceutical compositions of rhein or diacerein, or salts or esters or prodrugs thereof which are bioequivalent to a 50 mg diacerein formulation marketed under the trade name Art 50. The composition exhibits no variability in fed as compared to fasted state conditions. The composition also results in significant reduction in soft stools effects as compared to Art 20. The invention also relates to processes for the preparation of such compositions.