What is Fioricet?
Fioricet is a combination medication with three ingredients:
- Butalbital: A barbiturate that relaxes muscles and tension
- Acetaminophen: A pain reliever
- Caffeine: Boosts the pain-relieving effect
What is Fioricet used for?
Tension headaches
How does Fioricet work?
Each ingredient plays a different role. Butalbital calms the nervous system, acetaminophen blocks pain signals, and caffeine helps the pain relief work better.
How should you take Fioricet?
As prescribed, when a tension headache occurs. Never go over the daily maximum on the label.
What are the common side effects of Fioricet?
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Feeling lightheaded
What are the serious risks of Fioricet?
- Liver damage from acetaminophen. Many labels for this combination carry a boxed warning about this.
- Medication-overuse (“rebound”) headaches
- Dependence on butalbital
- Dangerous effects when combined with alcohol
Frequently asked questions
Can you take Tylenol with Fioricet?
Generally no. Tylenol is acetaminophen, and doubling up raises the risk of liver damage.
Is Fioricet used for migraines?
It’s approved for tension headaches. Other medications are usually preferred for migraines.
The bottom line
Fioricet can relieve tension headaches when used occasionally. Always check other medications for hidden acetaminophen.
References: DailyMed: Butalbital, acetaminophen and caffeine label · MedlinePlus: Butalbital, acetaminophen and caffeine