Fiorinal with Codeine

Generic name: Butalbital, Codeine phosphate, Aspirin, Caffeine

What is Fiorinal with Codeine?

Fiorinal with Codeine is prescribed for the relief of tension headache caused by stress and muscle contraction in the head, neck, and shoulder area. It combines a sedative-barbiturate (butalbital), a narcotic pain reliever and cough suppressant (codeine), a non-narcotic pain and fever reliever (aspirin), and a stimulant (caffeine).

What is the most important information I should know about Fiorinal with Codeine?

Barbiturates such as butalbital and narcotics such as codeine can be habit-forming (addicting) when taken in higher than recommended doses over long periods of time.

Who should not take Fiorinal with Codeine?

Do not take Fiorinal with Codeine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to butalbital, codeine, aspirin, caffeine, or other pain relievers.

Do not take this medication if you have a tendency to bleed too much; asthma (wheezing) associated with aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen; nasal polyps (growths or nodules); peptic (stomach) ulcer; porphyria (an inherited metabolic disorder affecting the liver and bone marrow); severe liver damage; severe vitamin K deficiency; and swelling due to water retention.

When aspirin is given to children and teenagers with chickenpox or flu, it can cause a dangerous neurological disease called Reye's syndrome. Therefore, do not use Fiorinal with Codeine under these circumstances.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Fiorinal with Codeine?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Fiorinal with Codeine. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have Addison's disease (an adrenal gland disorder), asthma, a bleeding disorder, difficulty urinating, an enlarged prostate, stomach (peptic) ulcers, or underactive thyroid.

Tell your doctor if you have had a head injury, have a history of substance abuse, or if you are taking blood thinners.

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 Fiorinal with Codeine is 1 to 2 capsules taken every 4 hours. Do not take more than 6 capsules per day.

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

How should I take Fiorinal with Codeine?

Take Fiorinal with Codeine with a full glass of water or food to reduce stomach irritation.

Take Fiorinal with Codeine exactly as prescribed.

What should I avoid while taking Fiorinal with Codeine?

Do not take Fiorinal with Codeine more frequently than prescribed and do not increase the amount you take without your doctor's approval.

Avoid taking this medication with other drugs that can make you feel drowsy. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Alcohol taken during therapy with Fiorinal can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.

Avoid other aspirin-containing products.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Fiorinal with Codeine?

If Fiorinal with Codeine 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 Fiorinal with Codeine with any of the following: acetazolamide; alcohol; beta-blocking blood pressure drugs such as atenolol and propranolol; blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin, MAO inhibitors, such as the antidepressants phenelzine or tranylcypromine; insulin; mercaptopurine; methotrexate; narcotic pain relievers such as codeine and morphine; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen; oral contraceptives; oral diabetes drugs such as glyburide; probenecid; sleeping pills; steroid medications such as prednisone; sulfinpyrazone; and tranquilizers such as alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, and diazepam.

What are the possible side effects of Fiorinal with Codeine?

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, nausea

Can I receive Fiorinal with Codeine if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Fiorinal with Codeine 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 Fiorinal with Codeine.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Fiorinal with Codeine?

If you take the drug on a regular schedule, take the dose you skipped 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. Do not take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Fiorinal with Codeine?

Store at room temperature. Keep the container tightly closed.