Fioricet

Fioricet is a combination of Acetaminophen, Butalbital, and Caffeine. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer. Butalbital is in a class of drugs called barbiturates that slow down your central nervous system (brain and nerve impulses) causing relaxation. Caffeine is believed to constrict dilated blood vessels that may contribute to tension headaches. Together, acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine are used to relieve complex tension (muscle contraction) headaches although precisely how Fioricet works is unknown.

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Please consult your healthcare professional before using this or any other prescription or non-prescription medication.

About Fioricet

Fioricet Directions

To prevent upset stomach, take Fioricet with food or milk. Pain medications work best in preventing pain before it occurs. Once the pain becomes intense, Fioricet is not as effective in relieving it. Take Fioricet as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take Fioricet more frequently without your doctor's approval.

Fioricet Side Effects

Fioricet May cause lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, stomach upset, nausea, and sleeping disturbances the first few days as your body adjusts to Fioricet. If these symptoms persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop: a rapid / irregular heartbeat. An allergic reaction to Fioricet is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Fioricet Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: serious liver disease, alcohol or narcotic dependence, emotional/mental conditions, heart disease (arrhythmias, recent MI), stomach/intestinal ulcers, any allergies. Acetaminophen may cause liver damage. Daily use of alcohol, especially when combined with acetaminophen, may increase your risk for liver damage. Check with your doctor or pharmacist for more information. To prevent oversedation, avoid using alcohol and other sedative type medications while taking Fioricet. Fioricet may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Fioricet contains caffeine. Avoid drinking large amounts of caffeinated beverages while taking Fioricet as excessive nervousness and irritability can occur. Fioricet should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Small amounts of Fioricet appear in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions with Fioricet

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: "blood thinners". Tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use that cause drowsiness such as: medicine for sleep (e.g., sedatives), tranquilizers, anti-anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam), narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicines (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine, or tricyclics such as amitriptyline), anti-seizure drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), muscle relaxants, antihistamines that cause drowsiness (e.g., diphenhydramine). Because Fioricet contains acetaminophen, check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medications containing acetaminophen which is commonly found in nonprescription pain relievers and cough-and-cold products. Read labels carefully to check ingredients. Fioricet may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. Discuss using other methods of birth control with your doctor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Fioricet Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of Fioricet overdose may include vomiting, unusual drowsiness, lack of feeling alert, slow or shallow breathing, cold or clammy skin, loss of consciousness, dark urine, stomach pain, and extreme fatigue.

Missed Dose of Fioricet

If you miss a dose of Fioricet, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose of Fioricet to catch up.