Fioricet is the brand name for a medication used to treat tension and, sometimes, migraine headaches, as well as mild to moderate pain. This drug contains three active ingredients: acetaminophen, butalbital and caffeine. Acetaminophen is an analgesic more commonly known as Tylenol, and butalbital is a barbiturate that relaxes muscle contractions and slows down the central nervous system. Caffeine, a well-known stimulant, aids in improving blood circulation. In combination, these ingredients act on the central nervous system to inhibit the transmission of nerve signals associated with pain. As with all medications, there are certain common effects that one should be aware of when taking Fioricet.
Sedation
Fioricet contains the sedative butalbital, according to RxList.com, which can produce a sedative side effect or drowsiness. It is not uncommon for a person to develop an intoxicated feeling after taking a dose of this combination drug. Additionally, this frequently experienced intoxicated effect is described as including sensations of dizziness, lightheadedness or drowsiness. These sensations can occur after taking Fioricet and may linger for several hours. Consequently, individuals taking this drug should be cautious in operating machinery or driving after taking a dose of this medication.
Upset Stomach
This medication, according to MedlinePlus, has the potential to produce multiple gastrointestinal side effects. For example, individuals taking this medication frequently experience effects such as nausea and/or vomiting and bloating. Additional common side effects that have been reported include constipation, heartburn or indigestion, and stomach pain. These symptoms are considered to be temporary mild side effects that dissipate as your body becomes adjusted to the medication. The prescribing physician should be notified if these common adverse reactions persist or become worrisome.
Shortness of Breath
While taking this medication, some individuals may experience respiratory problems. Specifically, another frequently reported reaction to starting this drug therapy, as stated by both RxList.com and DrugLib.com, is shortness of breath. Again, this symptom likely will diminish as your body gets used to the medication. However, you should be aware that this shortness of breath can contribute to sensations of dizziness or lightheadedness in some individuals. If this symptom persists, then you will need to let your physician know about this for appropriate medical evaluation.
Dependence
As mentioned above, this combination drug contains butalbital , which is a barbiturate. RxList.com states that butalbital is associated with abuse and chemical addiction when high doses are taken for a prolonged length of time; specifically, drug tolerance as well as both psychological and physical dependence may occur. As RxList.com explains, when a person develops a tolerance to barbiturates, the amount needed to achieve the original level of drug experience keeps increasing, yet tolerance to a fatal dose only increases by twofold. Also, interestingly enough, the lethal dose of a barbiturate is far less if alcohol is consumed. With all of this said, major withdrawal symptoms, including seizures and delirium, are possible and can occur within 16 hours; moreover, withdrawal symptoms can last up to five days if Fioricet is suddenly stopped. Therefore, it is imperative that Fioricet be taken only as prescribed by your doctor.
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