All you need to know about Fioricet

Fioricet is the brand name given to a combination medication comprising of butalbital, acetaminophen and caffeine. It is usually used to treat headaches when other medications fail to provide relief. It falls into the controlled substance category. This implies that you cannot buy Fioricet without a valid prescription.

Uses of Fioricet

Typically, Fioricet is prescribed to treat tension headaches. The drug relaxes muscle contractions which are associated with the tension headaches. It may also be used for other purposes in combination with other medicines. These include treating fever, migraine or severe headaches resulting from other causes. Depending on the purpose, your doctor might prescribe Fioricet to help relieve the pain specifically or to help other painkillers function better by enhancing their effects.

What does it look like?

Fioricet is most commonly found in the form of tablets and pills. However, it is also available as a liquid, which isn’t usually prescribed. The tablets are available in different dosages. You would have to check the labelling to know the dosage of the Fioricet tablets you are buying.

What does Fioricet consist of?

Fioricet tablets contain acetaminophen, butalbital and caffeine. Acetaminophen primarily helps to treat fever and pain. The function of butalbital is to relax muscles. Caffeine produces stimulant effects in the Central Nervous System. Together, these ingredients work on the brain and the CNS to produce the desired effects.

In what dosages should you consume Fioricet?

The dosage of Fioricet you need to take per day would depend on your health condition. However, it must not exceed six capsules a day. The optimum dosage of acetaminophen for best results is 2000 mg per day, which is approximately the same you would receive from six capsules. It is highly recommended to follow the dosage prescribed you your doctor without making any changes by yourself. An abrupt break in medication or irregular gaps may lead to complications. In case if you miss a dose and it’s time for the next dose, do not take two doses. Simply return to the prescribed schedule and maintain the time gap. Fioricet capsules shouldn’t be taken by children younger than 12 years.

Precautions to take while using Fioricet

While Fioricet is a very effective medicine, there are certain precautions which need to be maintained in order to prevent unwanted effects. These are:

• ·         It is recommended not to use Fioricet during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. It is unknown whether the drug can affect the foetus. However, in case if the child is born dependent on a habit-forming substance like butalbital, it may cause severe withdrawal symptoms after birth. In case if you are pregnant or are planning to be pregnant soon, please confirm with your doctor whether you should take Fioricet.
• ·         You should never discontinue the use of Fioricet altogether unless advised to by your doctor. It may result in various withdrawal effects and complications. This is because using Fioricet over longer periods of time can create physical dependence. Even if you are starting to feel better and think you do not require Fioricet anymore, please consult your doctor first. If discontinuation of the medication is necessary, the doctor would likely reduce the doses gradually over the weeks to prevent unwanted effects.

How to store Fioricet?

Fioricet must be kept away from heat or freezing. It is recommended to be in room temperature, in a closed container. As Fioricet is a narcotic medicine, unused tablets should be dropped off at a drug take-back centre. Ask a medical professional for advice if you are unable to understand how to dispose of expired or unused Fioricet. Always keep the drug out of reach of children.