What is Fioricet?

Fioricet is a drug which contains Acetaminophen, Butalbital and caffeine. This makes it a pain reliever and fever reducer.

Uses

Fioricet is used to treat tension headaches that root from muscle contractions.
You might be prescribed Fioricet for uses other than those listed above. It may also be given along with other medicines for some other disease too. Contact your doctor or pharmacist about the uses of Fioricet.

Warnings

Do not take any dose of Fioricet if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. IF you take Fioricet along with the MAO drug in your body you might face a threat to your life by reaction between these two drugs.
Do not take Fioricet more than the amount advised. An overdose might lead to liver problems. Do not take cold or allergy medicines without informing your doctor first. Acetaminophen is present in many medications. Using these along with Fioricet might lead to an over dosage of Acetaminophen. Read the ingredients of all the medicines you are using to make sure you don't over dose APAP.
Avoid the use of alcohol during the course of Fioricet. If you consume more than three beverages containing alcohol in one day do not use Fioricet as it may increase the chances of a liver disease.
Fioricet is habit forming and should only be used for the period prescribed. It should also be noted that an increased dosage size also contributes to the habit forming.

How should I take Fioricet?

Take Fioricet along with food or a glass of milk if you feel your stomach gets upset by the dose. Overdosing this is not good and the patient should take extreme care when using this medicine. Taking more than the prescribed amount may pose damage to your liver.
Keep track of the amount of drug used. Butalbital is a drug of abuse and one should take care if any other person in the house is using it improperly or without prescription.
If the medicine stops improving your condition inform your doctor about it.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Fioricet is only to be used when required by the patient. If you have been prescribed to use it on a daily basis then take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is time for your next dose then skip the missed dose and continue with your schedule. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.
Overdose symptoms may include insomnia, restlessness, tremor, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, loss of appetite, increased sweating, shallow breathing, confusion, uneven heartbeats, seizure (convulsions), or coma.

Fioricet side effects

Halt the use of Fioricet if the patient faces the following side effects:

• Fast heartbeat;
• Shortness of breath;
• Nausea;
• Fever;
• Dark Urine;
• Jaundice;
• Easy bruising;
• Body aches and
• Flu.

Less serious side effects of Fioricet include:

• Drowsiness;
• Dizziness;
• Dry Mouth;
• Confusion;
• Drunk feeling or
• Headache.

Proper storage of Fioricet

Fioricet is to be stored at room temperature. Room temperature: 68 to 77 Degrees F or 20 to 25o C. It is to be kept in a tightly closed container. Keep Fioricet away from sunlight, heat and moisture. Do not place it in bathrooms. Keep Fioricet out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information

For more information about Fioricet consult your doctor or pharmacist. If your symptoms get worse after using this drug then inform this to your doctor.
Fioricet is to be used only for the person it is prescribed for. Do not share your medication.