Fioricet Uses

Fioricet is a prescription barbiturate sedative 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 as well as for migraine.

How Taken

One or two Fioricet tablets are taken every 4 hours as needed. Your total daily dosage should not exceed six tablets. Extended and repeated use of Fioricet is not recommended due to the potential for physical dependence.

Warnings/Precautions

Fioricet 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 Fioricet. 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. 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 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 Fioricet 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

If any side effects 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. More common side effects of Fioricet 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

StoreFioricet below 86° F (30° C); dispense in a tight container and keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

An overdose of Fioricet, or combining this Fioricet with alcohol or other central nervous system depressant, may lead to unconsciousness or perhaps death. An overdose of Fioricet 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 Fioricet Information

Do not take Fioricet if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) in the last 14 days. Dangerous side effects could result. Fioricet may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), other pain relievers, anxiety medications, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medications that you are taking, and do not take any medication unless your doctor approves.

Disclaimer

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of Fioricet. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.