Fioricet

Generic name: Butalbital, acetaminophen, and caffeine

What is Fioricet?

Fioricet is used for the relief of tension headache symptoms caused by muscle contractions in the head, neck, and shoulder area.

What is the most important information I should know about Fioricet?

Mental and physical dependence (addiction) can occur with the use of barbiturates such as butalbital when these drugs are taken in higher than recommended doses over long periods of time.

Who should not take Fioricet?

Do not take Fioricet if you are allergic to it or to any of its ingredients.

Do not take this medication if you have an inherited metabolic disorder that affects the liver or bone marrow (porphyria).

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Fioricet?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Fioricet. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver disease, have severe stomach pain, a history of prior substance abuse, or if you drink more than 3 alcoholic beverages per day.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual dose of Fioricet is 1 or 2 tablets taken every 4 hours as needed. Do not take more than 6 tablets per day.

Fioricet may cause excitement, depression, and confusion in older people. Your doctor will prescribe a dose individualized to suit your needs.

Children: The safety and efficacy of Fioricet has not been established in children less than 12 years of age.

How should I take Fioricet?

Take Fioricet exactly as prescribed. Do not increase the amount you take without your doctor's approval. You may take Fioricet with food or milk if it upsets your stomach.

What should I avoid while taking Fioricet?

Fioricet can cause drowsiness or dizziness. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities.

Avoid taking Fioricet with sleeping pills, anti-allergy medications, sedatives, and tranquilizers. These may also make you drowsy.

Do not drink alcohol while taking Fioricet. Doing so may result in increased drowsiness and dizziness and may also damage your liver.

Avoid taking other medications that contain acetaminophen, such as Tylenol. Avoid taking in too much caffeine.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Fioricet?

If Fioricet is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Fioricet with the any of the following: antihistamines such as diphenhydramine, anxiety medicines such as alprazolam or diazepam, monoamine oxidase inhibitors such as phenelzine and tranylcypromine, muscle relaxants such as cyclobenzaprine, narcotic pain relievers such as codeine or propoxyphene, and tranquilizers such as chlordizaepoxide, chlorpromazine, and haloperidol.

What are the possible side effects of Fioricet?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: stomach pain, dizziness, drowsiness, intoxicated feeling, light-headedness, nausea, sedation, shortness of breath, vomiting

Can I receive Fioricet if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Fioricet during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Do not breastfeed while taking Fioricet.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Fioricet?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

How should I store Fioricet?

Store at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant container.