Pharmacist Tips for Fioricet

Fioricet is a combination medication containing butalbital, acetaminophen, and caffeine. It’s taken by mouth as needed, typically every 4 hours, to treat tension headaches.

But it’s not a first-choice option because it can become habit-forming and can worsen headaches if taken too frequently. In addition, Fioricet can cause side effects, such as sleepiness and dizziness. It’s available as pills and an oral syrup.

Fioricet can make you sleepy, dizzy, and lightheaded. Don’t drive or use any heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

Avoid alcohol while taking Fioricet because it can make you more drowsy and dizzy, raise your risk of accidental injuries and liver damage, and worsen headaches

Take Fioricet exactly as your provider instructed you to. Don’t change your dose or stop taking Fioricet without talking to your provider first. To stop the medication, they might need to lower your dose slowly before stopping it completely. This lowers your risk of getting withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures, hallucinations, and worsening of headaches.

Make sure to tell your provider about all of the medications you’re taking before starting Fioricet. Don’t start any new medications while taking Fioricet without talking to your provider first to make sure the combination is safe to take.

Many over-the-counter and prescription medications contain acetaminophen. Don’t use other medications containing acetaminophen unless your provider specifically said it was okay for you to do so. Ask your provider or pharmacist if you aren’t sure if a certain medication contains acetaminophen.

Store Fioricet at room temperature in a place out of reach from children due to the life-threatening risk of accidental overdose and misuse. If you don’t need to take Fioricet anymore, choose a medication take-back option to get rid of it safely.

If you or someone you know accidentally overdoses on Fioricet, get emergency medical help or call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 right away.

For the liquid form: Make sure to only use a medication dose cup or oral syringe from the pharmacy to measure out your dose. Don’t use household spoons because they aren’t accurate and might cause you to take the wrong dose.