Fioricet: Butalbital, Acetaminophen and Caffeine
Brand name: Fioricet
Generic ingredients: Butalbital, Acetaminophen
and Caffeine
Fioricet® (Butalbital, Acetaminophen, and Caffeine Tablets)
is supplied in tablet form for oral administration. Butalbital,
acetaminophen and caffeine combination is a pain reliever
and sedative used to relieve mild to moderate pain and tension
headaches. Fioricet is available in generic form (a generic
drug has the same ingredients, composition and strength as
the brand drug).
Each tablet contains:
- butalbital 50 mg
- acetaminophen 325 mg
- caffeine 40 mg
How does Fioricet work?
- Butalbital calms the brain.
- Acetaminophen blocks production and release of
chemicals that cause pain.
- Caffeine relieves pain.
Butalbital
Butalbital is a short- to intermediate-acting barbiturate.
Barbiturates depress the sensory cortex, decrease motor activity,
alter cerebellar function, and produce drowsiness, sedation,
hypnosis, and dose-dependent respiratory depression.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins in
the central nervous system and peripherally blocks pain impulse
generation; produces antipyresis from inhibition of hypothalamic
heat-regulating center.
Caffeine
Caffeine increases levels of 3'5' cyclic AMP by inhibiting
phosphodiesterase; CNS stimulant which increases medullary
respiratory center sensitivity to carbon dioxide, stimulates
central inspiratory drive, and improves skeletal muscle contraction
(diaphragmatic contractility).
Fioricet 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.
Side effects may include: Abdominal pain, dizziness, drowsiness,
intoxicated feeling, light-headedness, nausea, sedation, shortness
of breath, vomiting.
More info about Fioricet
(Butalbital, Acetaminophen, and Caffeine) (pdf)
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