Fioricet Information
Drug Uses
Fioricet (butalbital) is a barbiturate sedative hypnotic mixed with a
non-aspirin pain medication and caffeine. This
non-narcotic pain medication and relaxant is often
prescribed for tension headaches caused by contractions
of the muscles in the neck and shoulder area, and
migraine.
How Taken
Fioricet (butalbital) comes as a capsule and tablet to take
by mouth. One or 2 tablets every 4 hours as needed.
Total daily dosage should not exceed 6 tablets. Extended
and repeated use of this product is not recommended
because of the potential for physical dependence.
Warnings/Precautions
Fioricet (butalbital) may cause you to become drowsy or less
alert; therefore, driving or operating dangerous
machinery or participating in any hazardous activity
that requires full mental alertness is not recommended
until you know your response to this drug. If you are
being treated for severe depression or have a history of
severe depression or drug abuse, consult with your
doctor before taking Fioricet (butalbital). Use this drug with
caution if you are elderly or in a weakened condition,
if you have liver or kidney problems, or if you have
severe abdominal trouble. If you are pregnant or plan to
become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.
Fioricet (butalbital) can affect a developing baby. It also appears
in breast milk. If this medication is essential to your
health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue
breastfeeding your baby until your treatment is
finished.
Missed Dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose,
skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing
schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a
missed one.
Possible Side Effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any
develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as
soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it
is safe for you to continue taking Fioricet (butalbital). More common
side effects may include: Abdominal pain, dizziness,
drowsiness, intoxicated feeling, light-headedness,
nausea, sedation, shortness of breath, vomiting. Less
common or rare side effects may include: Agitation,
allergic reactions, constipation, depression, difficulty
swallowing, dry mouth, earache, exaggerated feeling of
well-being, excessive sweating, excessive urination,
excitement, fainting, fatigue, fever, flatulence,
headache, heartburn, heavy eyelids, high energy, hot
spells, itching, leg pain, mental confusion, muscle
fatigue, numbness, rapid heartbeat, ringing in the ears,
seizure, shaky feeling, skin redness and/or peeling,
sluggishness, stuffy nose, tingling.
Storage
Store below 86° F (30° C); dispense in a tight container
and out of reach of children.
Overdose
An overdose of Fioricet (butalbital), or combining this
medication with alcohol or other central nervous system
depressant, may lead to unconsciousness or perhaps
death. Fioricet (butalbital) overdose is indicated by severe
drowsiness, confusion, extreme weakness, hallucination,
shortness of breath, too slow or troubled breathing,
slurred speech, lack of coordination, vomiting with
blood, unusually slow heartbeat.
More Information
Do not take Fioricet (butalbital) if you have taken a
monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) in the last 14 days.
Dangerous side effects could result. Fioricet (butalbital) may
increase the effects of other drugs that cause
drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol,
antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia),
other pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle
relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you
are taking, and do not take any medicine unless your
doctor approves.
Cost of Butalbital
Frequently Asked Questions
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