Uses:
Fioricet is a barbiturate sedative mixed
with a non-aspirin pain medication and caffeine. This non-narcotic
pain medication and relaxant is often prescribed for tension
headaches caused by contractions of the muscles in the neck
and shoulder area, and migraine.
How
To Take This Medication:
Fioricet comes as a capsule and tablet
to take by mouth. One or 2 tablets every 4 hours as needed.
Total daily dosage should not exceed 6 tablets. Extended
and repeated use of this product is not recommended because
of the potential for physical dependence.
Side Effects:
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If
any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as
soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is
safe for you to continue taking Fioricet. More common side
effects may include: Abdominal pain, dizziness, drowsiness,
intoxicated feeling, light-headedness, nausea, sedation,
shortness of breath, vomiting. Less common or rare side
effects may include: Agitation, allergic reactions, constipation,
depression, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, earache, exaggerated
feeling of well-being, excessive sweating, excessive urination,
excitement, fainting, fatigue, fever, flatulence, headache,
heartburn, heavy eyelids, high energy, hot spells, itching,
leg pain, mental confusion, muscle fatigue, numbness, rapid
heartbeat, ringing in the ears, seizure, shaky feeling,
skin redness and/or peeling, sluggishness, stuffy nose,
tingling.
Precautions:
Fioricet may cause you to become drowsy
or less alert; therefore, driving or operating dangerous
machinery or participating in any hazardous activity that
requires full mental alertness is not recommended until
you know your response to this drug. If you are being treated
for severe depression or have a history of severe depression
or drug abuse, consult with your doctor before taking Fioricet.
Use this drug with caution if you are elderly or in a weakened
condition, if you have liver or kidney problems, or if you
have severe abdominal trouble. If you are pregnant or plan
to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Fioricet
can affect a developing baby. It also appears in breast
milk. If this medication is essential to your health, your
doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding your
baby until your treatment is finished.
Drug Interactions:
Do
not take acetaminophen / Fioricet / caffeine if you have
taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid
(Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate)
in the last 14 days. Dangerous side effects could result.
Acetaminophen and Fioricet may increase the effects of other
drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants,
alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia),
other pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle relaxants.
Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking,
and do not take any medicine unless your doctor approves.
Many other medicines contain acetaminophen, especially over-the-counter
pain, fever, cold, and allergy medications. Too much acetaminophen
can be very dangerous. Drugs other than those listed here
may also interact with acetaminophen / Fioricet / caffeine.
Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription
or over-the-counter medicines.
Missed Dosage:
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip
the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule.
Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Storage:
Store below 86° F (30° C); dispense
in a tight container and out of reach of children.
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