 |
|
 |
 |
 |
|
|
Butalbital (generic Fioricet)
Butalbital (generic Fioricet) is a non-narcotic pain medication, often prescribed for tension headaches and migraines. Fioricet® is a barbiturate (butalbital), mixed with acetaminophen and caffeine. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer. Caffeine is believed to constrict dilated blood vessels that may contribute to tension headaches.
Butalbital (generic Fioricet)
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.
Precauations
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.
Copyright © 2005 PHDpharmacy All rights reserved. Products mentioned are trademarks of their respective companies
Privacy | Mission Statement All rights reserved ® 2005