US Brand Name
- Anolor 300
- Dolgic LQ
- Esgic
- Esgic-Plus
- Ezol
- Fioricet
- Geone
- Margesic
- Medigesic
- Nonbac
- Pacaps
- Repan
Descriptions
Butalbital, acetaminophen, and caffeine combination is used to relieve symptoms of tension (or muscle contraction) headaches.
BUTALBITAL; ACETAMINOPHEN; CAFFEINE (byoo TAL bi tal; a set a MEE noe fen; KAF een) treats tension headaches. It works by reducing pain. It also helps you relax. It is not used to prevent headaches or migraines. It is a combination of a barbiturate, acetaminophen, and caffeine.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Alagesic, Americet, Anolor-300, Arcet, BAC, CAPACET, Dolgic Plus, Esgic, Esgic Plus, Ezol, Fioricet, Geone, Margesic, Medigesic, Orbivan, Pacaps, Phrenilin Forte, Repan, Tenake, Triad, Zebutal
Butalbital belongs to the group of medicines called barbiturates. Barbiturates act in the central nervous system (CNS) to produce their effects.
Acetaminophen is used to relieve pain and reduce fever in patients. It does not become habit-forming when taken for a long time. But acetaminophen may cause other unwanted effects when taken in large doses, including liver damage.
When butalbital is used for a long time, it may become habit-forming, causing mental or physical dependence. However, people who have continuing pain should not let the fear of dependence keep them from using narcotics to relieve their pain. Physical dependence may lead to withdrawal side effects if treatment is stopped suddenly. However, severe withdrawal side effects can usually be prevented by gradually reducing the dose over a period of time before treatment is stopped completely.
Caffeine is a CNS stimulant that is used with pain relievers to increase their effect. It has also been used for migraine headaches. However, caffeine can also cause physical dependence when it is used for a long time. This may lead to withdrawal (rebound) headaches when you stop taking it.
This medicine is available only with your doctor’s prescription. This product is available in the following dosage forms:
- Tablet
- Capsule
- Solution
Uses of Fioricet
Fioricet is primarily prescribed for the treatment of tension headaches. It is also sometimes used off-label for migraines, although its efficacy in treating migraines is less well-documented compared to other medications.
Tension Headaches
A study comparing Fioricet to acetaminophen with codeine and placebo found that Fioricet was significantly more effective in relieving pain, emotional or psychic tension, and muscle stiffness or contractions associated with tension headaches.
Migraines
Despite its frequent use, the effectiveness of Fioricet in treating migraines is controversial. A randomized controlled trial found that Fioricet was only marginally superior to placebo for sustained freedom from migraine symptoms over 24 hours, and its overall results were disappointing.
Efficacy
The efficacy of Fioricet in treating tension headaches has been well-documented. In a multicenter investigation, Fioricet was found to be more effective than both acetaminophen with codeine and placebo in relieving pain and muscle stiffness. However, its efficacy in treating migraines is less clear, with some studies suggesting limited benefits.
How should I use this medication?
Take this medication by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. If the medication upsets your stomach, take the medication with food or milk. Do not take more than you are told to take.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.