Fioricet may be an effective way to manage frequent migraines or tension headaches. Even though Fioricet is not designed to be a general pain reliever, the brand name drug can be used for various types of pain including migraines and tension headaches. You will need a prescription for Fioricet which may provide you with relief from persistent and severe headaches.

Fioricet is a combination drug that includes caffeine, butalbital and acetaminophen. The latter is the main ingredient in pain relievers such as Tylenol and is a common over-the-counter pain reliever. If you are taking Fioricet, you need to discuss any other medications you are currently taking with your doctor. Acetaminophen is often found in cold and cough products, so you may end up overdosing.

Many beverages such as tea, colas and coffee, many foods as well as various over-the-counter drugs also contain caffeine. Caffeine makes the acetaminophen in Fioricet more effective. If you are taking Fioricet, you should not take other substances that contain caffeine. You risk suffering from nervousness or overdosing.

The sedative Butalbital belongs to the class of drugs known as barbiturates, and it is used as a muscle relaxant in Fioricet. Butalbital is used to alleviate muscle tension caused by tension headaches. Because any barbiturates can be addictive, you need to be careful not to develop a dependency when you take Fioricet.

You should only take Fioricet according to your doctor’s prescriptions. Never take more than the prescribed dosage, even if you are not obtaining relief from your current dose. If the drug is no longer working as well, it may indicate that you are becoming addicted to it. You should not take Fioricet if you have had any problems with drug addiction previously.

Fioricet can cause various side effects such as nausea, anxiety, drowsiness, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, vomiting, dizziness, shaking, lightheadedness or nervousness, and in rare cases, an allergic reaction. If you suffer any of these side effects, talk to your doctor as they may indicate signs of withdrawal, dependency or misuse.

You can also suffer a fatal overdose by taking too much Fioricet. If you believe you may have overdosed, make sure to seek immediate medical attention. You may need to slowly start taking lower doses of Fioricet to avoid symptoms of withdrawal and side effects. Don’t stop taking the drug without discussing the situation with your doctor.

Although Fioricet has risks, it can be an effective way to control migraines and headaches caused by tension. The risks are much lower when you take the medication according to your doctor’s prescription. If you suffer from chronic or severe tension headaches, make sure to ask your doctor about taking Fioricet.