Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually every 4 hours as needed.If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.
Fioricet is a prescription medication used to treat tension headaches. It is a combination of acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine. Here are detailed instructions on how to use Fioricet effectively and safely:
How to Use Fioricet
- Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions:
- Always take Fioricet exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not take more or less of the medication, or take it more frequently than directed.
- Dosage:
- Typical Dosage: The usual dose for adults is one to two tablets every four hours as needed for pain relief.
- Maximum Dosage: Do not exceed six tablets in a 24-hour period to avoid the risk of overdose, particularly of acetaminophen, which can cause severe liver damage.
- Administration:
- Oral Use: Fioricet is taken by mouth with or without food. If it causes stomach upset, taking it with food or milk may help.
- Duration of Use:
- Short-Term Use: Fioricet is intended for short-term use to manage acute headaches. Prolonged use can lead to dependence and medication overuse headaches.
- Avoid Long-Term Use: Do not use Fioricet for more than a few days unless specifically instructed by your doctor.
- Missed Dose:
- If Missed: If you miss a dose and are using Fioricet regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Important Considerations
- Avoid Alcohol:
- Risk of Liver Damage: Combining alcohol with Fioricet can increase the risk of liver damage due to acetaminophen and enhance the sedative effects of butalbital, leading to severe drowsiness or dizziness.
- Be Cautious with Other Medications:
- Drug Interactions: Fioricet can interact with other medications, particularly other CNS depressants, certain pain medications, and medications that also contain acetaminophen. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications and supplements you are taking.
- Side Effects:
- Common Side Effects: Drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
- Serious Side Effects: Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing), signs of liver problems (persistent nausea, vomiting, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine), and mood changes (confusion, hallucinations).
- Dependence and Withdrawal:
- Butalbital: Fioricet contains butalbital, a barbiturate that can be habit-forming. Use it only as prescribed and do not suddenly stop using it without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
- Consult Your Doctor: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Fioricet with your healthcare provider.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response to treatment. This medication works best if it is used as the first signs of a headache occur. If you wait until the headache has worsened, the medication may not work as well.This medication may cause withdrawal reactions, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time or in high doses. In such cases, withdrawal symptoms (such as nausea/vomiting, mental/mood changes, seizures) may occur if you suddenly stop using this medication.
To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Report any withdrawal reactions immediately.Along with its benefits, this medication may rarely cause abnormal drug-seeking behavior (addiction). This risk may be increased if you have abused alcohol or drugs in the past.
Take this medication exactly as prescribed to lessen the risk of addiction.Tell your doctor if you notice increased use of this medication, a worsening of headaches, an increase in the number of headaches, the medication not working as well, or use of this medication for more than 2 headache episodes a week. Do not take more than recommended. Your doctor may need to change your medication and/or add a separate medication to prevent the headaches.