Fioricet Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Warnings

Acetaminophen / butalbital / caffeine is also known as: Alagesic LQ, Anolor 300, Anoquan, Arcet, Dolmar, Esgic, Esgic-Plus, Ezol, Femcet, Fioricet, Fiorpap, Geone, Isocet, Margesic, Orbivan, Pharmagesic, Phrenilin Forte, Repan, Tenake, Tencet, Triad, Two-Dyne, Vanatol LQ, Vtol LQ, Zebutal

Acetaminophen / butalbital / caffeine Pregnancy Warnings

Use is not recommended unless clearly needed

US FDA pregnancy category: C

Comment: Monitor for barbiturate withdrawal in neonates

Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted on this combination product. Epidemiologic data for acetaminophen, including a population based case-control study from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (n= 11,610) and data from 26,424 live singleton births have shown no increased risk of major birth defects in children with first trimester prenatal exposure. In 2015, the US Food and Drug Administration released results of their evaluation on published research studies looking at mothers who took acetaminophen (either over the counter or as a prescription product) at any time during their pregnancy and the risk of attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) in their babies. They found all studies reviewed had potential limitations in their designs that prevented drawing reliable conclusions. Barbiturates have been reported to readily cross the placental barrier. A 2-day old infant whose mother had taken a butalbital-containing product during the last two months of pregnancy experienced withdrawal seizures; butalbital was found in the infant’s serum. There are no controlled data in human pregnancy.

US FDA pregnancy category C: Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Acetaminophen / butalbital / caffeine Breastfeeding Warnings

Acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine are excreted into human milk in small concentrations. The significance of the effects on nursing infants has not been reported, but due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, other agents may be preferred.

A decision should be made to discontinue breastfeeding or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

Excreted into human milk: Yes (acetaminophen); Yes (barbiturates); Yes (caffeine)

Pharmacist Tips for Fioricet

Fioricet is a combination medication containing butalbital, acetaminophen, and caffeine. It’s taken by mouth as needed, typically every 4 hours, to treat tension headaches.

But it’s not a first-choice option because it can become habit-forming and can worsen headaches if taken too frequently. In addition, Fioricet can cause side effects, such as sleepiness and dizziness. It’s available as pills and an oral syrup.

Fioricet can make you sleepy, dizzy, and lightheaded. Don’t drive or use any heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

Avoid alcohol while taking Fioricet because it can make you more drowsy and dizzy, raise your risk of accidental injuries and liver damage, and worsen headaches

Take Fioricet exactly as your provider instructed you to. Don’t change your dose or stop taking Fioricet without talking to your provider first. To stop the medication, they might need to lower your dose slowly before stopping it completely. This lowers your risk of getting withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures, hallucinations, and worsening of headaches.

Make sure to tell your provider about all of the medications you’re taking before starting Fioricet. Don’t start any new medications while taking Fioricet without talking to your provider first to make sure the combination is safe to take.

Many over-the-counter and prescription medications contain acetaminophen. Don’t use other medications containing acetaminophen unless your provider specifically said it was okay for you to do so. Ask your provider or pharmacist if you aren’t sure if a certain medication contains acetaminophen.

Store Fioricet at room temperature in a place out of reach from children due to the life-threatening risk of accidental overdose and misuse. If you don’t need to take Fioricet anymore, choose a medication take-back option to get rid of it safely.

If you or someone you know accidentally overdoses on Fioricet, get emergency medical help or call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 right away.

For the liquid form: Make sure to only use a medication dose cup or oral syringe from the pharmacy to measure out your dose. Don’t use household spoons because they aren’t accurate and might cause you to take the wrong dose.

Is Fioricet a Controlled Substance?

Fioricet is a controlled substance in some states. Because it contains butalbital, a medication that can be misused and cause dependence, some state governments place strict regulations on Fioricet. But it’s not classified as a controlled substance in all states because it contains acetaminophen. Initially, regulators believed that the acetaminophen in Fioricet discourages people from misusing Fioricet. This is because taking too much acetaminophen can cause harm, such as liver damage.

Fioricet on its own is not a federally controlled substance. Although it contains butalbital, it’s on the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA)’s list of exempted prescription products. But some states do classify BAC as a controlled substance.

Other combinations that contain Fioricet or are similar to Fioricet may be controlled substances. The DEA classifies Fiorinal, which contains butalbital, aspirin, and caffeine, as a Schedule III drug. That means that there’s a low to moderate risk of dependence or overuse.

BAC Fioricet

In April 2022, the DEA proposed removing the exemption for Fioricet. The proposed rule change would add all products that contain butalbital to its list of Schedule III controlled substances.

So regulators left it up to the states to decide on how to classify Fioricet. But recent data shows that the acetaminophen in Fioricet might not be enough to stop people from misusing this medication. There’s a possibility that the classification of Fioricet might change in the future. Fioricet is a controlled substance in some states. Because it contains butalbital, a medication that can be misused and cause dependence, some state governments place strict regulations on Fioricet.

But it’s not classified as a controlled substance in all states because it contains acetaminophen. Initially, regulators believed that the acetaminophen in Fioricet discourages people from misusing Fioricet. This is because taking too much acetaminophen can cause harm, such as liver damage. So regulators left it up to the states to decide on how to classify Fioricet. But recent data shows that the acetaminophen in Fioricet might not be enough to stop people from misusing this medication.

There’s a possibility that the classification of Fioricet might change in the future.

How to Treat Fioricet overdose

Fioricet overdose by anyone and/or any consumption by persons to whom it is not prescribed (particularly children) is always a medical emergency and medical attention must be sought immediately if an overdose or consumption by other persons is suspected.

Fioricet overdose is often fatal and symptoms may not present for hours following consumption, once initial overdose symptoms present they can progress rapidly and there may not be time to reach appropriate medical care after this point.

Acetaminophen over-exerts its toxicity through the production of a toxic metabolite which produces liver damage in doses of 3,000mg or more per day and acute liver failure in doses above that. The specific antidote to acetaminophen overdose is N-acetyl-cysteine. Kidney failure and stomach bleeding may also occur.

Butalbital overdoses exerts its toxicity through excessive sedation resulting in respiratory depression and ultimately death via hypoxia. Nonlethal overdoses may also result in coma and death. There is no specific antidote to butalbital overdose and treatment is supportive, common treatment regimens generally include the administration of intravenous administration of saline, naloxone, thiamine, glucose, NaHCO3 to alkalize the urine to increase rate of excretion, and activated charcoal via nasogastric tube. It is not uncommon for doctor to recommend observation of the patient in the Emergency Department for a number of hours or admission to the hospital for several days of observation if symptoms are severe and to counsel the patient on drug abuse and/or refer them for psychiatric evaluation.

Recommended dosages for this drug are based on someone’s age and weight and also the scheduled frequency of taking it.

Acetaminophen overdoses happen when someone:

Takes too much of the pain medication at one time
Re-doses too soon
Takes multiple medications at the same time that also contain acetaminophen

For a healthy adult weighing at least 150 pounds, the maximum daily dose of acetaminophen is 4,000 milligrams (mg). However, you can experience liver damage even if you stay at or below 4,000mg if you take this maximum dose for an extended period.

As such, doctors often recommend a maximum daily dose closer to 3,000 mg. Read the drug label carefully and know exactly how much acetaminophen is in each tablet, capsule or liquid dose.

The following table further details acetaminophen dosage recommendations:

	325mg	500mg	650mg (extended-release)
Take how many pills at a time?	1 or 2	1 or 2	1 or 2
Take how often?	Every 4 to 6 hours	Every 4 to 6 hours	Every 8 hours
Safest maximum daily dose for most adults	8 pills	6 pills	4 pills
Never take more than this in a 24-hour period	12 pills (3,900mg)	8 pills (4000mg)	6 pills (3,900mg)

For children, acetaminophen doses usually come in 80mg and 160mg, although many of the medications are delivered in liquids (syrups), not pills or chewable tablets.

Body weight plays more of a factor in dosing for kids than it does for adults. The smaller and younger a child is the more careful adults must be when giving the correct dosage. Get an updated weight on your child before administering acetaminophen or any medications that have acetaminophen in them.

Here are basic guidelines for children taking acetaminophen:

Child’s Weight	Syrup/Liquid (160mg)	Pills (80mg)
24 to 35 lbs	1 tsp	2 tablets
26 to 47 lbs	1.5 tsp	3 tablets
48 to 59 lbs	2 tsp	4 tablets
60 to 71 lbs	2.5 tsp	5 tablets
72 to 95 lbs	3 tsp	6 tablets
96 or more lbs	4 tsp	8 tablets

An important note: Children under the age of 6 should not take more than one medication at a time that has acetaminophen as an active ingredient.

If your child is younger than 2 years old, check with your pediatrician, an urgent-care physician or pharmacist before giving any medication that contains acetaminophen.

For adults and children, if the recommended dosages don’t relieve symptoms, consult with a doctor before making the decision to increase any dosages. Acetaminophen toxicity can lead to life-threatening acute liver failure.

How Often Can You Take Acetaminophen?

Dosing frequency is a crucial part of how much acetaminophen you can take at one time or during a one-day period. How long it takes acetaminophen to work, duration of its effects, and how long the medication stays in your body determine how often you should re-dose.

The recommended frequency is every four to six hours. After ingestion, it takes acetaminophen between 30 and 90 minutes to start working. Several factors, including formulation, other drug and alcohol intake influence the effects of acetaminophen.

If you have questions about acetaminophen and the right dose for you, speak with your doctor. Discuss other medications you may be taking and your overall health to determine the best plan for your needs.

How Long Does Acetaminophen Work For?

Acetaminophen typically lasts four hours for both pain relief and fever reduction. This is why the recommended dosing frequency is no more than every four to six hours.

The biological half-life of a drug plays an essential role in its effectiveness and safety. It is also an important factor for determining dosage recommendations.

How Long Does Acetaminophen Stay in Your System?

Scientists gauge the time it takes for your body to eliminate acetaminophen from the system by using the medication’s estimated half-life. A drug’s half-life is the time it takes for half a dose to be metabolized and eliminated from your bloodstream. Acetaminophen half-life elimination for therapeutic doses is between one and two-and-a-half (2.5) hours.

However, the expected half-life of acetaminophen can vary from person to person. Factors that affect its half-life include age, genetics, weight and overall health. Generally, a therapeutic dose of acetaminophen flushes fully from your system within 24 hours.

An acetaminophen overdose can extend the half-life of the drug to four and eight, meaning it may take up to three times longer for you to get the drug out of your body. If you re-dose too soon following even a small overdose period, it can lead to an acute case of severe acetaminophen toxicity.

Is Fioricet Addictive?

Although it’s only a prescription headache medication, Fioricet has the potential to cause addiction. If a person follows their prescription guidelines and uses the medication correctly, the risks of addiction are low. However, if someone takes too much Fioricet, they may develop tolerance to its effects. A person with tolerance to a certain dose of Fioricet will require higher doses of the medication to alleviate their headaches.

When a person with tolerance starts to take more Fioricet, possibly by obtaining more prescriptions, they may eventually become dependent on it. In other words, they may feel unable to get through the day without taking Fioricet; if they stop, they will experience symptoms of withdrawal. These symptoms arise because their body has grown accustomed to Fioricet in high doses.

If a Fioricet-dependent person attempts to weather withdrawal alone, it’s likely they will take Fioricet again just to relieve the symptoms of withdrawal. This is a hallmark characteristic of addiction. Anyone who compulsively abuses Fioricet to avoid withdrawal likely has an addiction to Fioricet. Additionally, people with an addiction to Fioricet will experience cravings for the medication which further compel them to keeping using it.

Moreover, the ingredient Butalbital is an addictive substance in its own right. Butalbital can cause someone to get “high” because it’s a Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressant. Since Butalbital is part of Fioricet, it is possible for someone to abuse Fioricet as a recreational drug. At high doses, Fioricet can intoxicate a person in a manner similar to alcohol. People who abuse Fioricet for this purpose have as much of a risk of developing an addiction as they would have if they repeatedly used an illegal drug.

How Much Acetaminophen Is Too Much?

Aside from determining how long acetaminophen works and how long it stays in your system, the drug’s half-life also determines how much is too much to take. The goal of medication is to achieve a steady state, at which point the amount of the drug you ingest and the amount that’s eliminated are equal.

Regardless of a drug’s half-life, it takes approximately four times longer for its concentration to reach a steady state in your body. Acetaminophen side effects often occur when you’re not in a steady state. A small amount of acetaminophen is metabolized into the compound NAPQI, which can cause liver toxicity in large amounts.

Taking too much acetaminophen can cause acute liver damage, which can be fatal. As such, you should not exceed the 4,000 mg maximum daily dose recommendation (you should ideally stay closer to 3,000 mg). Acetaminophen may also effect blood pressure. One 2022 clinical research study found that regular daily intake of 4 g acetaminophen increased systolic blood pressure in individuals with hypertension by about 5 mm Hg compared with a placebo.

Primary symptoms of acetaminophen overdose are:

Abdominal pain
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Excessive sweating
Jaundice
Irritability
Seizures
Coma

In case you suspect someone took an overdose of acetaminophen or if you see someone exhibit the above symptoms, you should immediately call 911, emergency medical services, a poison control center or a doctor.

Emergency room treatment will depend on the presenting condition and other drugs that may have been taken. If you make it to the hospital just after taking an overdose, the doctor will attempt to empty your stomach.

Doctors like to prescribe a dose of activated charcoal within four hours of an overdose to bind drugs remaining in your gastro-intestinal tract. They also give N-Acetylcysteine, an antidote for acetaminophen toxicity, orally or intravenously within eight hours.

Emergency doctors recommend that anyone suspected to have taken an acetaminophen overdose get treatment as soon as possible, even before the symptoms occur. Early treatment of acetaminophen overdose can improve the outcome significantly.

Acetaminophen Mechanism of Action

Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer. Butalbital is in a group of drugs called barbiturates. It relaxes muscle contractions involved in a tension headache. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant. It relaxes muscle contractions in blood vessels to improve blood flow.

Acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine is a combination medicine used to treat tension headaches that are caused by muscle contractions.

Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is generally considered to be a weak inhibitor of the synthesis of prostaglandins (PGs). However, the in vivo effects of paracetamol are similar to those of the selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors. Paracetamol also decreases PG concentrations in vivo, but, unlike the selective COX-2 inhibitors, paracetamol does not suppress the inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis.

It does, however, decrease swelling after oral surgery in humans and suppresses inflammation in rats and mice. Paracetamol is a weak inhibitor of PG synthesis of COX-1 and COX-2 in broken cell systems, but, by contrast, therapeutic concentrations of paracetamol inhibit PG synthesis in intact cells in vitro when the levels of the substrate arachidonic acid are low (less than about 5 mumol/L).

When the levels of arachidonic acid are low, PGs are synthesized largely by COX-2 in cells that contain both COX-1 and COX-2. Thus, the apparent selectivity of paracetamol may be due to inhibition of COX-2-dependent pathways that are proceeding at low rates.

This hypothesis is consistent with the similar pharmacological effects of paracetamol and the selective COX-2 inhibitors. COX-3, a splice variant of COX-1, has been suggested to be the site of action of paracetamol, but genomic and kinetic analysis indicates that this selective interaction is unlikely to be clinically relevant.

There is considerable evidence that the analgesic effect of paracetamol is central and is due to activation of descending serotonergic pathways, but its primary site of action may still be inhibition of PG synthesis.

The action of paracetamol at a molecular level is unclear but could be related to the production of reactive metabolites by the peroxidase function of COX-2, which could deplete glutathione, a cofactor of enzymes such as PGE synthase.

Currently, products that contain butalbital/aspirin/caffeine are classified as schedule III controlled substances; butalbital products listed on the DEA’s list of Exempted Prescription Products, including butalbital/acetaminophen/caffeine products, are unscheduled. This rule change eliminates the disparity of scheduling for butalbital-containing products and recognizes all products containing butalbital, including Fioricet, as schedule III controlled substances under the Iowa uniform Controlled Substances Act.

Fioricet Dosing Information and Fioricet Overdose Treatment

Usual Adult Dose of Fioricet for Headache:

Acetaminophen 300 mg, butalbital 50 mg, and caffeine 40 mg:
1 or 2 capsule(s) orally every 4 hours as needed. Maximum daily dose: 6 doses.

Acetaminophen 325 mg, butalbital 50 mg, and caffeine 40 mg:
1 or 2 tablet(s), capsule(s), or tablespoonful(s) orally every 4 hours.
Maximum daily dose: 6 doses

Acetaminophen 500 mg, butalbital 50 mg, and caffeine 40 mg:
1 tablet or capsule orally every 4 hours.
Maximum daily dose: 6 doses

Acetaminophen 750 mg, butalbital 50 mg, and caffeine 40 mg:
1 tablet orally every 4 hours.
Maximum daily dose: 5 tablets

Usual Pediatric Dose of Fioricet for Headache:

12 years and older:
Acetaminophen 300 mg, butalbital 50 mg, and caffeine 40 mg:
1 or 2 capsule(s) orally every 4 hours as needed. Maximum daily dose: 6 doses.

Fioricet Overdose Treatment

The first signs of an acetaminophen overdose include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, sweating, and confusion or weakness. Later symptoms may include pain in your upper stomach, dark urine, and yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.

Overdose symptoms may also include insomnia, restlessness, tremor, diarrhea, increased shallow breathing, uneven heartbeats, seizure (convulsions), or fainting.

What Are The Symptoms Of A Fioricet Overdose?

While Butalbital is the addictive ingredient in Fioricet, Acetaminophen is the ingredient which is liable to cause an overdose. Unfortunately, people who misuse Fioricet as a recreational drug or as a way to suppress withdrawal are most likely to suffer an overdose.

When a person overdoses on Fioricet, the Acetaminophen will damage their liver. In severe cases, an overdose can even provoke fatal liver failure. For this reason, it is dangerous to take Fioricet together with another medication which contains Acetaminophen because it increases the risk of overdose and death. Furthermore, drinking alcohol while taking Fioricet may also inflict liver damage.

A Fioricet overdose is a medical emergency, so it’s important to know the symptoms. An overdose on Fioricet may cause jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes. Other symptoms of an overdose include:

Confusion
Convulsions and seizures
Fainting
Irregular heartbeat
Lack of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Restlessness
Stomach pain
Sweating
Tremors

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of Fioricet can be fatal.

Overdose symptoms may also include insomnia, restlessness, tremor, diarrhea, increased shallow breathing, uneven heartbeats, seizure (convulsions), or fainting.

A single or multiple drug overdose with this combination product is a potentially lethal polydrug overdose, and consultation with a regional poison control center is recommended. Immediate treatment includes support of cardiorespiratory function and measures to reduce drug absorption.

Oxygen, intravenous fluids, vasopressors, and other supportive measures should be employed as indicated. Assisted or controlled ventilation should also be considered.

Gastric decontamination with activated charcoal should be administered just prior to N-acetylcysteine (NAC) to decrease systemic absorption if acetaminophen ingestion is known or suspected to have occurred within a few hours of presentation.

Serum acetaminophen levels should be obtained immediately if the patient presents 4 hours or more after ingestion to assess potential risk of hepatotoxicity; acetaminophen levels drawn less than 4 hours post-ingestion may be misleading.

To obtain the best possible outcome, NAC should be administered as soon as possible where impending or evolving liver injury is suspected. Intravenous NAC may be administered when circumstances preclude oral administration.

Vigorous supportive therapy is required in severe intoxication. Procedures to limit the continuing absorption of the drug must be readily performed since the hepatic injury is dose dependent and occurs early in the course of intoxication.

What You Should Know When You Buy Fioricet Online

Buying fioricet without a a local doctor’s prescription is possible here in fioricetcheap.

With fioricetcheap, you can buy cod fioricet online, you can even buy card fioricet, visa fioricet, Mastercard fioricet online.

Our card fioricet pharmacy is only for returned COD customers and we will tell you how to buy fioricet online using credit card if you have successfully accepted a COD fioricet or COD Gabapentin order.For COD fioricet orders, We only accept Money Orders of USPS for COD payment. We do not accept any personnel Check or small company money order.

If you have paid us bounced check or fraud check once, we will place you into customer blacklist, almost all online pharms share the same blacklist. You will not be possible to order prescription online any more. You also should know your own health condition before you buy Fioricet online.

Your first Fioricet or Gabapentin prescription must be approved by your local doctor. Our online doctors can approve your prescription too but our doctors’ decisions are based on your health conditions your provided to us. You must complete the health conditions very honestly. Some patients are not allowed to buy fioricet online in our network.

1. 1. You have porphyria;
  2. You have recently used alcohol;
  3. You have recently used sedatives, tranquilizers, or other narcotic medications;
  4. You have taken a MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days because A dangerous drug interaction could occur;
  5. You have liver , heart disease, kidney disease;
  6. You have a history of alcoholism or drug addiction;
  7. You have asthma, sleep apnea, or other breathing disorder;
  8. You have stomach ulcer or bleeding;
  9. You have a history of skin rash caused by any medication;
  10. You have a history of mental illness or suicidal thoughts;
  11. You use medicine to prevent blood clots;
  12. You are pregnant because your baby could become dependent on the drug;
  13. You are now breast feeding because Fioricet can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby.

When you are not allowed to buy fioricet online does not mean you can not take fioricet, you must go to your local doctors and local pharmacies to get your prescription. You need your doctors and pharmacists to check you face to face.

Fioricet Warnings

Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or stomach problems. Tell your doctor if you have a history of alcohol or drug addiction.
This medicine may cause the following problems:Liver damageSerious skin reactions
This medicine contains acetaminophen. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use more than 4 grams (4,000 milligrams) total of acetaminophen in one day.
This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive or do anything that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you.
This medicine can be habit-forming. Do not use more than your prescribed dose. Call your doctor if you think your medicine is not working.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Fioricet Interactions

Some medicines can affect how this medicine works. Tell your doctor if you are also using an MAO inhibitor (MAOI).
Tell your doctor if you use anything else that makes you sleepy. Some examples are allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, and alcohol.
Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine. Acetaminophen can damage your liver, and alcohol can increase this risk.
This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive or do anything that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you.
This medicine can be habit-forming. Do not use more than your prescribed dose. Call your doctor if you think your medicine is not working.
Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

What Are the Side Effects of Fioricet ?

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.

Fioricet Side effects may include: fatal skin reactions, seizure, confusion, depression, excitement, stomach pain, dizziness, drowsiness, intoxicated feeling, lightheadedness, nausea, sedation, shortness of breath, vomiting, excessive sweating.

Commonly reported side effects for Fioricet include:

Euphoria
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Intoxicated feeling
Light-headedness
Nausea
Vomiting
Sedation
Substance dependence
Shortness of breath
Abdominal pain

Fioricet is implicated as causing repeat headaches with over-use.

Commonly reported side effects for Fioricet include:

Euphoria
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Intoxicated feeling
Light-headedness
Nausea
Vomiting
Sedation
Substance dependence
Shortness of breath
Abdominal pain

Fioricet is implicated as causing repeat headaches with over-use

What Are The Possible Side Effects Of Fioricet?

Like any medication, Fioricet can cause side effects. People who misuse Fioricet or use it compulsively are at greater risk for experiencing the worst side effects of the medication.

The possible side effects of Fioricet include:

Anxiety
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Feelings of being intoxicated
Lightheadedness
Nausea and vomiting
Shaking and tremors
Shortness of breath
Stomach pain
Trouble sleeping

In some cases, a person who takes Fioricet may develop an allergic reaction to the drug. The symptoms of an allergic reaction are trouble breathing, itching, rashes, intense dizziness, and swelling in the face, throat, and tongue.

Fioricet Overdose

The treatment of Fioricet overdose is complicated by the presence of two substances which are highly toxic when taken in excessive amounts. Fioricet overdoses generally result in toxic amounts of both acetaminophen and butalbital being consumed at once, requiring both overdoses to be treated at once. Fioricet overdose by anyone and/or any consumption by persons to whom it is not prescribed (particularly children) is always a medical emergency and medical attention must be sought immediately if an overdose or consumption by other persons is suspected.

Fioricet overdose is often fatal and symptoms may not present for hours following consumption; once initial overdose symptoms present they can progress rapidly and there may not be time to reach appropriate medical care after this point.

Acetaminophen exerts its toxicity through the production of a toxic metabolite which can sometimes produce liver damage with doses as low as 4,000 mg, although normally requiring doses that are much higher. Acute liver failure may result in doses greatly exceeding this, and death has been known to occur with ingestion of 10,000-15,000 mg (10-15 grams of pure acetaminophen).

The specific antidote to acetaminophen overdose is N-acetylcysteine. Acute renal failure and upper gastrointestinal bleeding may also occur.

Butalbital exerts its toxicity through excessive sedation resulting in respiratory depression and ultimately death via hypoxia. Nonlethal overdoses may also result in coma and death. There is no specific antidote to barbiturate overdose and treatment is supportive. Common treatment regimens generally include the administration of intravenous administration of saline, naloxone, thiamine, glucose, sodium bicarbonate to alkalize the urine to increase rate of excretion, and activated charcoal via nasogastric tube.

It is not uncommon for a doctor to recommend observation of the patient in the emergency department for a number of hours or admission to the hospital for several days of observation if symptoms are severe and to counsel the patient on drug abuse or refer them for psychiatric evaluation.

What Are The Symptoms Of A Fioricet Overdose?

Confusion
Convulsions and seizures
Fainting
Irregular heartbeat
Lack of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Restlessness
Stomach pain
Sweating
Tremors

What may Interact With Butalbital APAP Caffeine?

Taking this medicine with other drugs that make you sleepy or slow your breathing can cause dangerous or life-threatening side effects. Ask your doctor before taking Fioricet with a sleeping pill, opioid pain medicine, muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety, depression, or seizures.

Other drugs may interact with acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

What may interact with this medication?

Alcohol or medications that contain alcohol
Antidepressants, especially MAOIs like isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, and selegiline
Antihistamines
Benzodiazepines
Carbamazepine
Isoniazid
Medications for pain like pentazocine, buprenorphine, butorphanol, nalbuphine, tramadol, and propoxyphene
Muscle relaxants
Naltrexone
Phenobarbital, phenytoin, and fosphenytoin
Phenothiazines like perphenazine, thioridazine, chlorpromazine, mesoridazine, fluphenazine, prochlorperazine, promazine, and trifluoperazine
Voriconazole

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

Medications known to interact with Fioricet (Butalbital APAP Caffeine)

abametapir topical
abemaciclib
abrocitinib
acalabrutinib
acebutolol
acetylcarbromal
acrivastine
adagrasib
adenosine
aldesleukin
alfentanil
alfuzosin
alosetron
alpelisib
alprazolam
altretamine
aminophylline
amitriptyline
amlodipine
amobarbital
amoxapine
amprenavir
anagrelide
anisindione
apalutamide
apixaban
apomorphine
apraclonidine ophthalmic
apremilast
aprepitant
aripiprazole
armodafinil
asenapine
asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi
asparaginase escherichia coli
aspirin
atazanavir
atogepant
atorvastatin
atropine
avacopan
avanafil
avapritinib
axitinib
azatadine
azilsartan medoxomil

baclofen
bedaquiline
belladonna
belumosudil
bendamustine
benztropine
bepridil
betamethasone
bexarotene
biperiden
black cohosh
boceprevir
bortezomib
bosutinib
brentuximab
brexanolone
brexpiprazole
brigatinib
brimonidine ophthalmic
brimonidine topical
brivaracetam
bromocriptine
brompheniramine
budesonide
buprenorphine
bupropion
buspirone
busulfan
butabarbital
butorphanol

cabazitaxel
cabozantinib
calaspargase pegol
calcifediol
calcitriol
canagliflozin
cannabidiol
cannabis
capmatinib
carbamazepine
carbetapentane
carbinoxamine
cariprazine
carisoprodol
carvedilol
caspofungin
cenobamate
ceritinib
cetirizine
cevimeline
charcoal
chlophedianol
chloral hydrate
chloramphenicol
chlordiazepoxide
chlorotrianisene
chlorphenesin
chlorpheniramine
chlorpromazine
chlorthalidone
chlorzoxazone
cholecalciferol
cholestyramine
cimetidine
ciprofloxacin
citalopram
clemastine
clevidipine
clidinium
clobazam
clofarabine
clomipramine
clonazepam
clonidine
clorazepate
clozapine
cobimetinib
cocaine nasal
cocaine topical
codeine
conjugated estrogens
copanlisib
corticorelin
corticotropin
cortisone
cosyntropin
crizotinib
cyclobenzaprine
cycloserine
cyclosporine
cyproheptadine

daclizumab
dantrolene
dapsone topical
daridorexant
darifenacin
darolutamide
darunavir
dasatinib
deferasirox
delavirdine
desipramine
desvenlafaxine
deutetrabenazine
dexamethasone
dexbrompheniramine
dextromethorphan
dezocine
diazepam
dicumarol
dicyclomine
difelikefalin
diflunisal
digitoxin
dihydroergotamine
dihydrotachysterol
diltiazem
dimenhydrinate
diphenhydramine
dipyridamole
disopyramide
disulfiram
divalproex sodium
docetaxel
dolutegravir
donepezil
doravirine
doxazosin
doxepin
doxepin topical
doxercalciferol
doxorubicin
doxorubicin liposomal
doxycycline
doxylamine
dronabinol
dronedarone
droperidol
drospirenone
duloxetine
duvelisib

echinacea
efavirenz
elacestrant
elagolix
eliglustat
encorafenib
enoxacin
entacapone
entrectinib
enzalutamide
epirubicin
ergocalciferol
ergonovine
ergotamine
erlotinib
escitalopram
esketamine
eslicarbazepine
estazolam
esterified estrogens
estradiol
estradiol topical
estrone
estropipate
eszopiclone
ethanol
ethinyl estradiol
ethosuximide
ethotoin
etonogestrel
etravirine
everolimus
exemestane
ezogabine

felbamate
fenfluramine
fenofibrate
fenoldopam
fenoprofen
fentanyl
fesoterodine
fexinidazole
finerenone
flavoxate
flibanserin
fludrocortisone
fluoxetine
fluphenazine
flurazepam
fluvoxamine
fosamprenavir
fosaprepitant
fosphenytoin
fostamatinib
fostemsavir
furazolidone

gabapentin
gabapentin enacarbil
ganaxolone
gefitinib
gilteritinib
givosiran
glasdegib
glycerol phenylbutyrate
glycopyrrolate
grepafloxacin
griseofulvin
guanfacine

halazepam
haloperidol
hemin
heroin
hydrocodone
hydrocortisone
hydromorphone
hydroxyprogesterone
hyoscyamine

ibrutinib
idelalisib
ifosfamide
iloperidone
imatinib
imipramine
indinavir
infigratinib
interferon beta-1a
interferon beta-1b
irinotecan
irinotecan liposomal
isavuconazonium
isocarboxazid
isoniazid
isradipine
ivabradine
ivacaftor
ixabepilone
ixazomib

kava
ketamine

labetalol
lamotrigine
lapatinib
larotrectinib
lasmiditan
lefamulin
leflunomide
lemborexant
lenacapavir
leniolisib
lesinurad
levamlodipine
levetiracetam
levobupivacaine
levocetirizine
levodopa
levoketoconazole
levomethadyl acetate
levonorgestrel
levorphanol
levothyroxine
levothyroxine / liothyronine
lidocaine
linagliptin
linezolid
liothyronine
liotrix
liraglutide
lithium
lofexidine
lomitapide
lonafarnib
lorazepam
lorlatinib
losartan
loxapine
lumateperone
lurasidone
lurbinectedin

macimorelin
macitentan
maprotiline
maraviroc
maribavir
mavacamten
medroxyprogesterone
mefloquine
megestrol
melatonin
mepenzolate
meperidine
mephenytoin
mephobarbital
mesoridazine
metaxalone
methadone
methdilazine
methocarbamol
methohexital
methotrexate
methotrimeprazine
methoxyflurane
methscopolamine
methsuximide
methyldopa
methylene blue
methylergonovine
methylprednisolone
methysergide maleate
metoclopramide
metoprolol
metronidazole
metyrosine
mibefradil
midazolam
midostaurin
mifepristone
mipomersen
mirabegron
mirtazapine
mitotane
mobocertinib
modafinil
molindone
montelukast
morphine
morphine liposomal

nabilone
nalbuphine
nalidixic acid
naloxegol
naltrexone
nebivolol
nefazodone
nelfinavir
nicardipine
nicotine
nifedipine
nilotinib
nimodipine
nisoldipine
nitisinone
norethindrone
norfloxacin
norgestrel
nortriptyline

obeticholic acid
olanzapine
olaparib
oliceridine
olopatadine nasal
olutasidenib
omaveloxolone
opicapone
opium
orphenadrine
osilodrostat
osimertinib
ospemifene
oxazepam
oxcarbazepine
oxtriphylline
oxybutynin
oxycodone
oxymorphone
ozanimod

paclitaxel
paclitaxel protein-bound
pacritinib
palbociclib
paliperidone
panobinostat
paraldehyde
paramethadione
paricalcitol
paroxetine
pazopanib
pegaspargase
peginterferon beta-1a
pemigatinib
penbutolol
pentazocine
pentobarbital
perampanel
pergolide
perphenazine
pexidartinib
phenacemide
phenelzine
phenobarbital
phensuximide
phenytoin
pimavanserin
pimozide
pirtobrutinib
pitolisant
pneumococcal 13-valent vaccine
pneumococcal 15-valent conjugate vaccine
pneumococcal 20-valent conjugate vaccine
pneumococcal 7-valent vaccine
ponatinib
pralsetinib
pramipexole
praziquantel
prazosin
prednisolone
prednisone
pregabalin
primidone
probenecid
procarbazine
prochlorperazine
procyclidine
progesterone
progesterone topical
promazine
promethazine
propafenone
propantheline
propiomazine
propoxyphene
propranolol
protriptyline
pyridoxine
pyrilamine

quazepam
quetiapine
quinestrol
quinidine
quinine

ramelteon
ranitidine
ranitidine bismuth citrate
ranolazine
rasagiline
regadenoson
relugolix
remdesivir
remifentanil
remimazolam
repaglinide
ribociclib
rifampin
rilpivirine
riluzole
riociguat
ripretinib
risperidone
ritonavir
rivaroxaban
rolapitant
ropeginterferon alfa-2b
ropinirole
ropivacaine
rotigotine
rucaparib
rufinamide
ruxolitinib

safinamide
saquinavir
saxagliptin
scopolamine
secobarbital
selegiline
selpercatinib
selumetinib
sertraline
sibutramine
sildenafil
silodosin
sirolimus
sirolimus protein-bound
sodium oxybate
sodium salicylate
solifenacin
sonidegib
sorafenib
sotorasib
sparsentan
st. john’s wort
stiripentol
sufentanil
sulfinpyrazone
sunitinib
suvorexant

tacrolimus
tadalafil
tafamidis
tamoxifen
tamsulosin
tapentadol
tasimelteon
tazemetostat
telaprevir
telithromycin
telmisartan
temazepam
temsirolimus
tepotinib
terazosin
terbinafine
teriflunomide
tetrabenazine
thalidomide
theophylline
thiabendazole
thiethylperazine
thioguanine
thiopental
thioridazine
thiothixene
thyroid desiccated
tiagabine
ticagrelor
timolol
tinidazole
tipranavir
tizanidine
tofacitinib
tolcapone
tolterodine
tolvaptan
topiramate
topotecan
toremifene
trabectedin
tramadol
tranylcypromine
trazodone
triamcinolone
triazolam
trifluoperazine
triflupromazine
trihexyphenidyl
trimeprazine
trimethadione
trimethobenzamide
trimipramine
tripelennamine
triprolidine
trospium
trovafloxacin
tucatinib

ubrogepant
ulipristal

valbenazine
valerian
valproic acid
valsartan
vemurafenib
venetoclax
venlafaxine
verapamil
vigabatrin
vilazodone
viloxazine
voriconazole
vortioxetine

warfarin

zaleplon
zanubrutinib
ziconotide
zidovudine
ziprasidone
zolpidem
zonisamide

Fioricet alcohol/food interactions

There are 6 alcohol/food interactions with Fioricet (acetaminophen / butalbital / caffeine).

What Should I Watch for While Using Butalbital APAP Caffeine?

Tell your care team if your pain does not go away, if it gets worse, or if you have new or a different type of pain. You may develop tolerance to the medication. Tolerance means that you will need a higher dose of the medication for pain relief. Tolerance is normal and is expected if you take the medication for a long time.

Do not suddenly stop taking your medication because you may develop a severe reaction. Your body becomes used to the medication. This does NOT mean you are addicted. Addiction is a behavior related to getting and using a medication for a non-medical reason. If you have pain, you have a medical reason to take pain medication. Your care team will tell you how much medication to take. If your care team wants you to stop the medication, the dose will be slowly lowered over time to avoid any side effects.

You may get drowsy or dizzy when you first start taking the medication or change doses. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that may be dangerous until you know how the medication affects you. Stand or sit up slowly.

Do not take other medications that contain acetaminophen with this medication. Always read labels carefully. If you have questions, ask your care team or pharmacist.

If you take too much acetaminophen get medical help right away. Too much acetaminophen can be very dangerous and cause liver damage. Even if you do not have symptoms, it is important to get help right away.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
CNS depression—slow or shallow breathing, shortness of breath, feeling faint, dizziness, confusion, trouble staying awake
Liver injury—right upper belly pain, loss of appetite, nausea, light-colored stool, dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing skin or eyes, unusual weakness or fatigue
Redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

Dizziness
Drowsiness
Nausea
Stomach pain
Vomiting

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What are the Risks and Warnings for Fioricet?

Fioricet can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options

Liver damage

Risk factors: Drinking alcohol | Taking other medications containing acetaminophen | Taking too much Fioricet | History of liver problems

Taking too much acetaminophen can cause liver damage that can be permanent and life-threatening. For adults, the maximum amount of acetaminophen is 3 or 4 grams in a 24-hour period, depending on your provider’s instructions.

Speak to your provider before using Fioricet if you have liver problems since it can cause further damage to your liver. Also, avoid drinking alcohol while taking Fioricet because this combination can harm your liver too.

Signs of liver problems include dark urine, feeling tired, upset stomach or stomach pain, or yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes. If you notice any of these symptoms, call your provider right away.

Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness

Risk factors: Taking high doses of Fioricet | Age 65 years or older | Drinking alcohol | Taking other medications that can cause sleepiness

Fioricet can cause extreme sleepiness and lower your ability to think, react, and focus. Don’t drink alcohol or take other medications that can cause sleepiness or “brain fog”, such as pain medications or antidepressants, with Fioricet. Doing so can worsen these side effects. Make sure you know how this medication affects you before driving a car or doing activities that require your concentration. Talk to your healthcare provider right away if you feel too sleepy from taking Fioricet.

Serious skin or allergic reactions

Risk factors: History of serious skin reactions | Allergy to acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Fioricet contains acetaminophen (Tylenol), which can rarely cause life-threatening skin reactions and allergic reactions. If you’re allergic to acetaminophen, don’t take Fioricet. If you develop symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, mouth, or throat, trouble breathing, itchy red rash (hives), or vomiting, stop taking Fioricet and call for emergency medical help right away. If you develop symptoms of a skin reaction, such as a reddening or peeling of the skin, painful rash, or fluid-filled blisters, stop taking Fioricet and go to the emergency room right away.

Misuse, dependence, and withdrawal

Risk factors: Taking Fioricet longer than prescribed | Taking higher doses of Fioricet than prescribed | Taking Fioricet more often than prescribed

Fioricet contains butalbital, which can be habit-forming. Misuse of Fioricet can lead to dependence, accidental overdose, and even death. Doing so can also cause withdrawal symptoms, like seizures, restlessness, trouble sleeping, and shakiness, if you lower your dose or stop taking the medication suddenly. To lower the risk of physical dependence, don’t take Fioricet longer than prescribed, at higher doses than prescribed, or more often than prescribed.

Call for emergency medical help if you have any symptoms of taking too much butalbital, including sleepiness, trouble breathing, dizziness, confusion, or loss of consciousness. If you no longer want to take Fioricet, talk to your healthcare provider so they can instruct you on how to stop taking the medication safely. Speak to your healthcare provider about alternative treatments if you have concerns about taking Fioricet.

Is it Safe to use Fioricet During Pregnancy?

There haven’t been enough strong clinical studies looking at Fioricet and its effects on pregnancy, so it’s not completely known how safe it is during pregnancy. A study found that Fioricet could potentially raise the risk of heart problems in unborn babies. In addition, there has been a report of a newborn experiencing withdrawal seizures at birth. This is likely related to the fact the mother took a medication with butalbital during the last two months of pregnancy. If you’re pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of using Fioricet with your provider.

What Is Fioricet?

Fioricet is the brand for a combination medication with FDA approval to treat some types of tension headaches. It helps relax muscle contractions involved with tension headaches and has been used extensively off-lave; for migraines. Fioricet contains a blend of:

Butalbital (50mg): A type of barbiturate that helps with muscle relaxation
Acetaminophen (300mg): An over-the-counter analgesic that helps to relieve pain
Caffeine (40mg): Added to enhance the effects of acetaminophen

Some types of Fioricet also contain codeine, a potent narcotic and opioid used to treat pain.

What are the risks and warnings for Fioricet?

Do not use Fioricet if you have taken an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, and tranylcypromine.

You should not use Fioricet if you are allergic to it, if you have porphyria, or if you have recently used alcohol, sedatives, tranquilizers, or other opioids.

To make sure Fioricet is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

liver disease, cirrhosis, a history of alcoholism or drug addiction, or if you drink more than 3 alcoholic beverages per day;
kidney disease;
stomach ulcer or bleeding;
a history of skin rash caused by any medication; or
a history of mental illness or suicidal thoughts.

It is not known whether Fioricet will harm an unborn baby. If you use butalbital while you are pregnant, your baby could become dependent on the drug. This can cause life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in the baby after it is born. Babies born dependent on habit-forming medicine may need medical treatment for several weeks. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding a baby.

Fioricet is not approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years old.

Can I Take Other Pain Medications While I’m Taking Fioricet for Pain?

You might be able to take other pain medications, like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve), with Fioricet if you need more relief for your headache. These medications work differently to ease pain and they can help lower the amount of Fioricet you need to relieve your symptoms.

Taking less Fioricet means you’re not as likely to experience the dangers or side effects of taking this medication. But don’t take other medications containing acetaminophen (Tylenol). Fioricet already contains acetaminophen, and you might accidentally take too much acetaminophen if you take these other medications and Fioricet together.

This can lead to serious liver damage. Before using other pain medications with Fioricet, speak with your healthcare provider to make sure it’s safe for you to do so. Other pain medications still carry risks that shouldn’t be ignored (e.g., heart risks, kidney problems).

What is FIoricet ?

BUTALBITAL; ACETAMINOPHEN; CAFFEINE (byoo TAL bi tal; a set a MEE noe fen; KAF een) treats tension headaches. It works by reducing pain. It also helps you relax. It is not used to prevent headaches or migraines. It is a combination of a barbiturate, acetaminophen, and caffeine.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Alagesic, Americet, Anolor-300, Arcet, BAC, CAPACET, Dolgic Plus, Esgic, Esgic Plus, Ezol, Fioricet, Geone, Margesic, Medigesic, Orbivan, Pacaps, Phrenilin Forte, Repan, Tenake, Triad, Zebutal

What may interact with this medication?

Alcohol or medications that contain alcohol
Antidepressants, especially MAOIs like isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, and selegiline
Antihistamines
Benzodiazepines
Carbamazepine
Isoniazid
Medications for pain like pentazocine, buprenorphine, butorphanol, nalbuphine, tramadol, and propoxyphene
Muscle relaxants
Naltrexone
Phenobarbital, phenytoin, and fosphenytoin
Phenothiazines like perphenazine, thioridazine, chlorpromazine, mesoridazine, fluphenazine, prochlorperazine, promazine, and trifluoperazine
Voriconazole

Can I Drink Coffee While Taking Fioricet?

It’s recommended to limit caffeine because Fioricet already contains caffeine. The maximum dose of Fioricet is 6 doses per day, which equates to 240 mg of caffeine. For comparison, an 8-ounce cup of coffee contains 95 mg to 165 mg of caffeine.

According to the FDA, 400 mg of caffeine is considered a safe amount for adults that won’t cause dangerous side effects. Too much caffeine can lead to nervousness, shakiness, restlessness, trouble sleeping, and a fast heart rate. If you experience these symptoms, avoid other sources of caffeine and use the lowest possible amount of Fioricet.

Fioricet

Fioricet is a combination medication composed of acetaminophen (Tylenol’s main ingredient), caffeine, and butalbital. It is used to relieve tension headaches and can also be prescribed to treat mild to moderate migraine.

Butalbital belongs to the barbiturate class of medication, which means it is a sedative, or relaxant.¹ This makes Fioricet a barbiturate. Because it contains acetaminophen and caffeine, it is also a pain reliever and a stimulant.

Medications containing this combination of ingredients come in capsule and tablet forms, which can be taken by mouth. This combination of medications is also available in generics. Other brand names and formulations include:

Esgic®
Fioricet® with Codeine (containing Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine)
Phrenilin® with Codeine (containing Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine)²

What are the ingredients in Fioricet?

The active ingredients in Fioricet are acetaminophen, caffeine, and butalbital.

How does Fioricet work?

The acetaminophen in Fioricet is a pain reliever, the caffeine works as a stimulant to increase the acetaminophen’s effectiveness, and the butalbital is a sedative that decreases anxiety while causing relaxation and sleepiness. These actions are believed to ease migraine symptoms, but there is limited evidence that barbituates ease migraine symptoms.

What are the possible side effects of Fioricet?

The most common side effects from Fioricet include:

Drowsiness
Upset stomach
Vomiting
Stomach pain
Depression
Lightheadedness
Confusion³

The following side effects could be signs of allergy or more serious complications and should be reported to health provider immediately:

Skin rash
Itching
Difficulty breathing²

This is not an exhaustive list of all potential side effects of Fioricet.

For more information, consult your doctor or healthcare provider. Patients should talk to their doctor about what to expect with treatment with Fioricet. If you notice any new or worsening side effects, contact your doctor or healthcare provider immediately.

Things to note about Fioricet

Fioricet can be habit-forming, so you should use extreme caution if you decide to take it. Additionally, some people who take barbituates or opioids for extended periods can experience rebound headaches, which can increase in severity. These are also known as MOH, or medication overuse headaches.

Barbituates can cause drowsiness, and their effect can be increased by alcohol use. It is important not to drive or use heavy machinery until you know how this drug affects you.²

Before taking Fioricet, tell your doctor if you:

Are allergic to any ingredients in the medication
Are taking blood thinners, antidepressants, antihistamines, or other sedatives like sleeping pills or tranquilizers.
Are taking pain medications. Many over-the-counter pain relievers contain acetaminophen, and too much of this drug can be harmful.
Have ever had liver disease, porphyria, or depression
Are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding²

You should begin no medication or supplement without first checking with your health care provider and should let them know of any other prescriptions, OTCs, and herbals you are taking to ensure there are no interactions.

What’s the difference between Fioricet and Fiorinal?

Fioricet and Fiorinal are both used to treat tension headaches. Both medications contain butalbital and caffeine, but Fioricet also has acetaminophen whereas Fiorinal contains aspirin.

This combination of drugs is used to relieve tension headaches.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Unlike acetaminophen, aspirin also treats inflammation and swelling. Neither medication is considered a first-choice option for treating tension headaches. Another difference is that while Fiorinal is a schedule III controlled substance, Fioricet might or might not be classified as a controlled substance in your state. This is because Fioricet is currently on the DEA list of exempted prescription products, meaning it’s up to the individual states how they regulate it.

Fioricet is a popular medication approved to treat symptoms of tension headaches. Migraines affect close to one billion people worldwide. More than an intense headache, people with migraines know well that the symptoms can linger for days and disrupt their daily life. While there are many treatment options for treating migraines, approximately 6% of patients use Fioricet to control the symptoms. If you suffer from migraines or someone you know takes Fioricet, keep reading to learn about addiction’s side effects and risk factors.

If you or a loved are in need of a drug addiction treatment program in Florida, contact Lighthouse Recovery Institute today at 866.326.4317 for more information about your options and to learn how we can help.

What Is Fioricet?

Butalbital (50mg): A type of barbiturate that helps with muscle relaxation
Acetaminophen (300mg): An over-the-counter analgesic that helps to relieve pain
Caffeine (40mg): Added to enhance the effects of acetaminophen

Some types of Fioricet also contain codeine, a potent narcotic and opioid used to treat pain.

Side Effects of Fioricet

This medication can cause severe side effects. While taking Fioricet, you should avoid drinking alcohol, as mixing alcohol and acetaminophen can increase your risk of liver disease. People with asthma, kidney disease, and a history of mental illness or suicidal thoughts should also avoid using this medication. It may also negatively interact with other medications that have a sedating effect. Combining sedatives can slow breathing and heart rate to dangerous levels. It’s important to disclose all medications to your doctor or pharmacist to avoid risks of drug interactions. In rare cases, acetaminophen can cause a severe skin allergic reaction that can turn lethal. Fioricet can also pass into breast milk, so pregnant women should seek medical advice about any side effects. Common side effects include:

Drowsiness
Dizziness
Anxiety
Restlessness
Insomnia
Loss of appetite
Drink feeling
Confusion
Shortness of breath
A light-headed feeling
Nausea
Upper stomach pain
Dark urine
Yellowing of the skin or eyes

Is Fioricet Addictive?

Although Fioricet is a valid prescription medication, it has the potential to cause addiction. When someone follows their prescription guidelines and directions, the risk of addiction is shallow. However, if someone exceeds their dosage, they may develop tolerance to its effects. Particularly, the active ingredient butalbital may be habit-forming. Fioricet can make you feel very relaxed or high when taken in high doses, as with other prescription drugs. Again, these effects are largely produced from the butalbital and codeine in Fioricet. Barbiturates are central nervous system depressants, so taking more than prescribed can produce a high that feels similar to alcohol intoxication.

Withdrawal

Most symptoms of Fioricet withdrawal last anywhere between 8 hours to three days. However, factors like ingesting alcohol, metabolism, and using other substances may extend the withdrawal timeline. Rebound headaches are the most common sign of withdrawal. Other symptoms include:

Anxiety
Dizziness
Insomnia
Muscle spasms
Nausea and vomiting
Mood swings
Tremors
Weakness

Overdose

Interestingly enough, while butalbital is the habit-forming ingredient in Fioricet, acetaminophen is the most likely to cause an overdose. An overdose is a medical emergency that can be fatal without medical assistance. Signs of overdose include:

Yellowing of the skin and eyes
Confusion
Convulsions
Fainting
Irregular heartbeat
Nausea and vomiting
Restlessness
Stomach pain
Sweating
Tremors

Fioricet and Codeine

In addition, some formulas of Fioricet contain codeine, a potent opioid. Codeine enhances the medication’s pain-relieving effects, but it also increases the risk of overdose and addiction. If you or someone you know needs a Fioricet prescription, be sure to ask for the opioid-free version of the drug. Misuse of Fioricet with codeine, either accidentally or intentionally, may lead to lethal respiratory depression. Shallow breathing, a slow heart rate, and intense confusion are other overdose symptoms from Fioricet with codeine. Fioricet with codeine should not be taken in combination with serotonergic drugs, like some types of antidepressants or anxiety medications.

Signs of Fioricet Addiction

Fioricet abuse signs are very similar to other prescription drugs. People who abuse prescription drugs tend to experience physical and behavioral changes that include:

Taking more medication than prescribed
Experiencing cravings and burgers for the drug
Taking more of the medication to get the same effects
Spending a lot of time getting, using, and recovering from the drug
Seeking out multiple doctors to get a new prescription
Using multiple pharmacies to feel their prescription

Physical Signs

Physical signs of addiction are very similar to alcohol abuse. Medications like sleeping pills and pain medicines have similar effects:

Drowsiness
Slurred speech
Confusion
Loss of motor skills
Coma

Psychological Signs

The behavioral signs of substance abuse resemble drunkenness and usually include:

Lack of inhibition
Paranoia
Impaired judgment
Irritability
Suicidal thoughts

Addiction Treatment Options

There are several options to treat prescription drug addiction. Since Fioricet causes withdrawal symptoms, most people will start their journey with a medical detox followed by inpatient or outpatient treatment.

Medical detox—Involves assisting the patient in removing all of the Fioricet and other substances from the body under a controlled environment to manage withdrawal symptoms.
Inpatient treatment—Allows patients to stay at a facility for an extended period of time to focus solely on their recovery.
Outpatient treatment—Provides more flexibility for patients who want to seek treatment but prefer to stay at home. Patients still attend individual and group therapy throughout the week.
Partial hospitalization program—A treatment option for Fioricet addiction lets patients attend treatment throughout the day but return home at night.
Dual diagnosis treatment—Ideal for patients with addiction and mental health disorders, dual diagnosis treatment helps treat both conditions simultaneously.

Seek Help at Lighthouse Recovery Institute

While Fioricet can be an effective treatment for tension headaches, it has its fair share of side effects and risks. Ask your doctor for medical advice on other treatment options that don’t cause withdrawal symptoms or the possibility of developing an addiction. Call your doctor about other medications, Botox, over-the-counter pain relievers, and other lifestyle support measures such as biofeedback, yoga, and acupressure that might help manage symptoms more safely.

At Lighthouse Recovery Institute, our admission specialists can walk you through a drug screening assessment to better understand your state. If you or someone you know is abusing prescription drugs, reach out to an addiction specialist today and stop your vicious cycle. Addiction can cost you your life, but recovery is widely available. Call 866.326.4317 today and start your recovery journey.

What is Fioricet?

Fioricet is a combination of three medications that work together to help relieve headache pain.

Butalbital is a barbiturate that works by raising the levels of chemicals that cause your brain to relax.
Acetaminophen is an analgesic. It stops the production of certain chemicals in your brain, which can help relieve pain.
Caffeine is an adenosine antagonist. It blocks a natural chemical in your body called adenosine. It’s unclear exactly how caffeine works to treat headaches, but it’s thought to boost the pain-relieving activity of acetaminophen.

What is Fioricet used for?

Tension headaches

Fioricet dosage forms

capsule

50mg/300mg/40mg50mg/325mg/40mg

tablet

50mg/325mg/40mg50mg/500mg/40mg

Typical dosing for Fioricet

There are several manufacturers and brand names of this medication. The dose might differ slightly and each pill might contain different amounts of acetaminophen depending on which manufacturer and formulation of the medication you’re using.

Be sure to check your prescription for specific instructions. In general:

Fioricet and its generic: Each pill contains 50 mg of butalbital, 300 mg of acetaminophen, and 40 mg of caffeine.

Adults and children 12 years and older: The typical dose is 1 to 2 capsules by mouth every 4 hours as needed for pain. The maximum dose is 6 capsules in a 24-hour period.

Zebutal, Esgic, and generic tablets: Each pill contains 50 mg of butalbital, 325 mg of acetaminophen, and 40 mg of caffeine.

Adults and children 12 years and older: The typical dose is 1 to 2 capsules or tablets by mouth every 4 hours as needed for pain. Don’t take more than 6 pills in a 24-hour period.

Vtol LQ oral solution: Each tablespoonful (15 mL) contains 50 mg of butalbital, 325 mg of acetaminophen, and 40 mg of caffeine.

Adults and children 12 years and older: The typical dose is 15 mL (1 tablespoon) to 30 mL (2 tablespoons) by mouth every 4 hours. Don’t take more than 90 mL (6 tablespoons) in a 24-hour period.

What are the risks and warnings for Fioricet?

Fioricet is a combination medication containing butalbital, acetaminophen, and caffeine. It’s taken by mouth as needed, typically every 4 hours, to treat tension headaches. But it’s not a first-choice option because it can become habit-forming and can worsen headaches if taken too frequently. In addition, Fioricet can cause side effects, such as sleepiness and dizziness. It’s available as pills and an oral syrup.

COMMON BRANDS

Fioricet, Esgic, Zebutal, Vtol LQ

DRUG CLASS

Barbiturate / Analgesic / Adenosine antagonist

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CLASSIFICATION

Controlled in some states. See FAQs below.

GENERIC STATUS

Lower-cost generic available

AVAILABILITY

Prescription only

Fioricet can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options