Fioricet is a prescription medication commonly used to treat tension headaches and migraines. It is a combination drug that includes butalbital, acetaminophen, and caffeine. Each component of Fioricet plays a specific role in alleviating headache symptoms. This article will explore the composition, uses, efficacy, and potential side effects of Fioricet.
Composition of Fioricet
Fioricet contains three active ingredients:
- Butalbital: A barbiturate that helps to relax muscle contractions involved in a tension headache.
- Acetaminophen: A pain reliever and fever reducer.
- Caffeine: A central nervous system stimulant that improves the effectiveness of acetaminophen.
Uses of Fioricet
Fioricet is primarily prescribed for the treatment of tension headaches. It is also sometimes used off-label for migraines, although its efficacy in treating migraines is less well-documented compared to other medications.
Tension Headaches
A study comparing Fioricet to acetaminophen with codeine and placebo found that Fioricet was significantly more effective in relieving pain, emotional or psychic tension, and muscle stiffness or contractions associated with tension headaches.
Migraines
Despite its frequent use, the effectiveness of Fioricet in treating migraines is controversial. A randomized controlled trial found that Fioricet was only marginally superior to placebo for sustained freedom from migraine symptoms over 24 hours, and its overall results were disappointing.
Is Fioricet Addictive?
Fioricet can be addictive. One Fioricet component (butalbital) belongs to a class of potentially habit-forming drugs called barbiturates. These medications are depressants and work by activating the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) system. Over time, it can require more of the drug to get the same effect — this is called tolerance. When taken recreationally, barbiturates can produce feelings similar to being drunk.
Fioricet with codeine has a higher addiction risk because codeine, an opioid agonist, works on the brain’s mu-opioid receptors. While codeine produces a much more mild effect, this is the same way other opioids like oxycodone and heroin work. When abused, medications containing codeine can cause feelings of euphoria, relaxation or “high.”
Signs of Fioricet Addiction
Fioricet and Fioricet with codeine have the potential for misuse. If you or a loved one exhibit the following signs, you might be addicted to Fioricet:
- Taking more Fioricet than prescribed, or taking it differently than prescribed
- Taking Fioricet at inappropriate times like work or school
- Craving Fioricet when you try to stop
- Damaging relationships
- Stealing or borrowing money from work or school
- Secretive or defensive behavior about using
- Losing interest in usual activities
Side Effects of Fioricet Addiction
Fioricet, with or without codeine, can be addictive, and severe consequences can result when taken differently than prescribed or used more than prescribed. Initial side effects of using Fioricet include:
- Drowsiness
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness
- Sedation
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain.
However, over time these side effects can subside.
For those with a Fioricet addiction, complications typically arise from taking too much acetaminophen (Tylenol), which can result in liver damage. In addition, butalbital affects the central nervous system and can cause respiratory depression or sedation. The caffeine content of Fioricet is relatively low and unlikely to cause significant damage unless additional caffeine is taken in substantial amounts.
Fioricet Withdrawal
Fioricet can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly or weaned too quickly because of this medication’s action in the brain. While each person may experience withdrawal differently, general Fioricet withdrawal symptoms include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Nausea
- Irritability
- Sleep problems
- Confusion
Professional medical detox can help you manage Fioricet withdrawal and give you the best chance for a drug-free life. In medical detox, you are under supervised medical care with professionals who regularly monitor for signs and symptoms of Fioricet withdrawal and treat them as clinically indicated. This minimizes the discomfort of quitting Fioricet, and your healthcare team can guide the next steps after the medical detox is complete.
Finding Treatment For Fioricet Addiction
Fioricet addiction is dangerous to you and those around you. Taking more of this medication than prescribed can have long-term health implications, which you may be able to reverse by quitting Fioricet. The sooner you seek treatment, the sooner you can start taking your life back.
The Recovery Village Ridgefield is here to help. Our Joint Commission-accredited facility offers several different treatment options to serve you best. Our compassionate medical professionals are trained to monitor withdrawal signs during medical detox and provide the care you need. Whether you require inpatient or outpatient treatment, we offer a full continuum of care.