Fioricet

FIORICET DRUG INFORMATION

BUTALBITAL/ACETAMINOPHEN/CAFFEINE - ORAL (byou-TAL-bih-tall/uh-seet-uh-MEE-no-fen/kaff-EEN)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Esgic, Fioricet

USES:

This is a pain reliever and sedative, and is used to relieve mild to moderate pain and tension headaches.

HOW TO USE:

To prevent upset stomach, always 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, by your doctor. Never increase your dose or take it more frequently without seeking your doctor's approval.

SIDE EFFECTS:

This medication may cause lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, stomach upset, nausea, and sleeping disturbances the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. While these symptoms may not need medical attention if these symptoms persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop any of these symptoms: a rapid or irregular heartbeat. Allergic reactions to this medication are rare, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. The 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:

It is important to discuss your entire medical history with your doctor, especially if you have a history 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. To prevent over-sedation, avoid using alcohol and other sedative type medications while taking this drug. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery, because this drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid alcoholic beverages. This medication contains caffeine. It is imperative to avoid drinking large amounts of caffeinated beverages while taking this medication as excessive nervousness and irritability can occur. Women who are pregnant should only use this medication when it is clearly needed, and should consult their doctor about all of the risks concerning this medication. Since small amounts of this drug passes into breast milk, women who are nursing should consult their doctor before breast feeding, because of the potential risk to the infant. It is not recommended to breast-feed while using this medication.

DRUG INTERACTIONS:

It is vital to always tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: "blood thinners" Tell your doctor about all of the prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use that cause drowsiness such as: 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. Never start or stop any medicine without first seeking your doctor’s approval.

OVERDOSE:

Contact your local emergency room or poison control center if an overdose is suspected 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:

Never share prescription medication with others.

MISSED DOSE:

In the event that you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember before it is close to time to take your next dose, then simply skip it and resume taking as scheduled. It is important never to “double-up” on this medication.

STORAGE:

It is important to store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

This information is not intended to replace the knowledge and skills of a qualified healthcare provider. While the following can be a valuable resource, this drug may not be safe or effective for everyone. You should always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before taking any prescription medication.