Fioricet is a pain reliever made up of Butalbital, Acetaminophen and Caffeine. Butalbital belongs to the group of drugs called barbiturates; it acts to slow down nervous system (brain and nerve impulses) activity, which causes relaxation. The pain reliever and fever reducer Acetaminophen is contained in this medication. Caffeine causes dilated blood vessels to constrict that are believed to lead to tension headaches. Together these ingredients are used to relieve complex tension headaches, although the exact way that Fioricet works is unknown.

Fioricet Directions

It is recommended when taking Fioricet to prevent an upset stomach by taking with food or milk. In most instances pain medications work the best if they are taken before the pain occurs or becomes severe. Fioricet will not be as effective if the pain is allowed to become very intense. Fioricet should only be taken in the manner prescribed. Do not increase dosages of Fioricet unless recommended to do so by a doctor or physician.

Fioricet Side Effects

Symptoms that may be caused by Fioricet include lightheadedness, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, upset stomach and sleeping disturbances. These symptoms may occur during the first few days of taking Fioricet while your body is adjusting to the medication. If these symptoms persist or become worse, inform your doctor. If you develop rapid or irregular heartbeats, notify your doctor immediately. Rarely an allergic reaction will occur to Fioricet, seek medical attention immediately if this occurs. Rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness or trouble breathing are symptoms of an allergic reaction. If you notice side effects that are not mentioned above, notify your doctor or pharmacist.

Fioricet Precautions

Your medical history should be shared with your doctor, especially serious liver disease, narcotic or alcohol dependence, mental or emotional problems, arrhythmias or recent MI including heart disease, ulcers of the stomach or intestine or any allergies. Liver damage may be caused by Acetaminophen. The daily consumption of alcohol, especially when used with Acetaminophen, may increase the risk of liver damage. Avoid using alcohol and other sedative medication while taking Fioricet to prevent over sedation. Using Fioricet may cause dizziness or drowsiness, so use caution while engaging in activities such as driving or operating machinery. Fioricet contains caffeine so avoid the drinking of large amounts of caffeine as it may cause excessive nervousness and irritability. Fioricet should only be used during pregnancy if it is clearly needed. Small amounts of Fioricet may appear in breast milk. Inform your doctor if you are or plan to breastfeed while taking Fioricet.

Drug Interactions with Fioricet

Inform your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs that you use, especially blood thinners. Your doctor should be informed of all medications that you take that may cause drowsiness such as: sleep medicine (e.g. sedatives), anti-anxiety drugs (e.g. diazepam), tranquilizers, narcotic pain relievers (e.g. codeine), muscle relaxants, antihistamines that cause drowsiness (e.g. diphenhydramine), anti-seizure drugs (e.g. carbamazepine) and psychiatric medicines (e.g. penothiazines such as chlorpromazine, or tricyclics such as amitriptyline). Fioricet contains acetaminophen, so check with your doctor before taking any medications containing this ingredient, including common nonprescription pain relievers and cough-and-cold products. Read the labels on all medications and carefully check ingredients. The effectiveness of birth control pills may be reduced by taking Fioricet. Discuss the use of other birth control methods with your doctor while taking Fioricet. Without doctor or pharmacist approval, do not start or stop any prescription medication.

Fioricet Overdose

Contact the hospital emergency room or local poison control center immediately if an overdose is suspected. Symptoms of an overdose of Fioricet may include vomiting, slow or shallow breathing, cold or clammy skin, reduced alertness, unusual drowsiness, extreme fatigue, loss of consciousness, dark urine and stomach pain.

Missed Dose of Fioricet

If a dose of Fioricet is missed, take it as soon as you remember. Do not take the missed dose if it is almost time for another dose; instead, resume your normal dosing schedule by skipping the missed dose. Do not take double the does to catch up on a missed dose.