Fioricet
is a barbiturate sedative (butalbital) mixed with
a non-aspirin pain medication (acetaminophen)
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 migraines. Acetaminophen
is a pain reliever and fever reducer. Butalbital
is in a class of drugs called barbiturates that
slow down your central nervous system (brain and
nerve impulses) causing relaxation. Conversely,
caffeine is believed to constrict dilated blood
vessels that may contribute to tension headaches.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist
or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed
to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or
effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before
using this drug.
USES: This medication is
a pain reliever and sedative. It is used to relieve mild to
moderate pain and tension headaches.
HOW TO USE: To prevent upset
stomach, take this medication with food or milk. Pain medications
work best in preventing pain before it occurs. Once the pain
becomes intense, the medication is not as effective in relieving
it. Take this as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or
take it more frequently without your doctor's approval.
SIDE EFFECTS: May cause lightheadedness,
dizziness, drowsiness, stomach upset, nausea, and sleeping
disturbances the first few days as your body adjusts to the
medication. If these symptoms persist or become bothersome,
inform your doctor. Notify your doctor immediately if you
develop: a rapid/ irregular heartbeat. An allergic reaction
to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention
if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash,
itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor
or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor
your medical history, especially of: serious liver disease,
alcohol or narcotic dependence, emotional/mental conditions,
heart disease (arrhythmias, recent MI), stomach/intestinal
ulcers, any allergies. Acetaminophen may cause liver damage.
Daily use of alcohol, especially when combined with acetaminophen,
may increase your risk for liver damage. Check with your doctor
or pharmacist for more information. To prevent oversedation,
avoid using alcohol and other sedative type medications while
taking this. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution
engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving
or using machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. This medication
contains caffeine. Avoid drinking large amounts of caffeinated
beverages while taking this medication as excessive nervousness
and irritability can occur. This medication should be used
during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Small amounts of
this medication appear in breast milk. Consult your doctor
before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your
doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may
use, especially of: "blood thinners" Tell your doctor
or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription drugs
you may use that cause drowsiness such as: medicine for sleep
(e.g., sedatives), tranquilizers, anti-anxiety drugs (e.g.,
diazepam), narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric
medicines (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine, or
tricyclics such as amitriptyline), anti-seizure drugs (e.g.,
carbamazepine), muscle relaxants, antihistamines that cause
drowsiness (e.g., diphenhydramine). Because this medication
contains acetaminophen, check with your doctor or pharmacist
before taking other medications containing acetaminophen which
is commonly found in nonprescription pain relievers and cough-and-cold
products. Read labels carefully to check ingredients. This
drug may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control
pills. Discuss using other methods of birth control with your
doctor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or
pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is
suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency
room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include vomiting,
unusual drowsiness, lack of feeling alert, slow or shallow
breathing, cold or clammy skin, loss of consciousness, dark
urine, stomach pain, and extreme fatigue.
NOTES: Do not share this
product with others.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as
remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next
dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual
dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to
catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature
away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.
