Butalbital (Generic Fioricet ®)
Uses
Butalbital is a pain reliever and sedative.
It is used to relieve mild to moderate pain and tension headaches.
How to Use
To prevent upset stomach, take Butalbital
with food or milk. Pain medications work best in preventing pain
before it occurs. Once the pain becomes intense, the medication
is not as effective in relieving it. Take this as prescribed. Do
not increase your dose or take it more frequently without your doctor's
approval.
Side Effects
Butalbital may cause lightheadedness, dizziness,
drowsiness, stomach upset, nausea, and sleeping disturbances the
first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these
symptoms persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify
your doctor immediately if you develop: a rapid/ irregular heartbeat.
An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate
medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction
include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor
or pharmacist.
Precauations
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: serious liver
disease, alcohol or narcotic dependence, emotional/mental conditions,
heart disease (arrhythmias, recent MI), stomach/intestinal ulcers,
any allergies. Acetaminophen may cause liver damage. Daily use of
alcohol, especially when combined with acetaminophen, may increase
your risk for liver damage. To prevent oversedation, avoid using
alcohol and other sedative type medications while taking this.
Butalbital may make you dizzy or drowsy;
use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving
or using machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. This medication contains
caffeine. Avoid drinking large amounts of caffeinated beverages
while taking this medication as excessive nervousness and irritability
can occur. This medication should be used during pregnancy only
if clearly needed. Small amounts Butalbital
appear in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you
may use, especially of: "blood thinners" Tell your doctor or pharmacist
of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use that cause
drowsiness such as: medicine for sleep (e.g., sedatives), tranquilizers,
anti-anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam), narcotic pain relievers (e.g.,
codeine), psychiatric medicines (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine,
or tricyclics such as amitriptyline), anti-seizure drugs (e.g.,
carbamazepine), muscle relaxants, antihistamines that cause drowsiness
(e.g., diphenhydramine). Because this medication contains acetaminophen,
check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medications
containing acetaminophen which is commonly found in nonprescription
pain relievers and cough-and-cold products. Read labels carefully
to check ingredients. This drug may interfere with the effectiveness
of birth control pills. Discuss using other methods of birth control
with your doctor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor
or pharmacist approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center
or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include
vomiting, unusual drowsiness, lack of feeling alert, slow or shallow
breathing, cold or clammy skin, loss of consciousness, dark urine,
stomach pain, and extreme fatigue.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if
it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose
and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose
to catch up.
Storage
Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not
store in the bathroom.
