Butalbital/aspirin/caffeine (By mouth)

Introduction:

Aspirin (AS-pir-in), Butalbital (bue-TAL-bi-tal), Caffeine (KAF-een)

Treats tension headaches and mild to moderate pain.Butalbital belongs to a group of drugs known as barbiturates (bar-bi-chur-ates).

Brand Name(s):

Fiorinal, Aspirin/Butalbital/Caffeine

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to: butalbital or related medicine such as phenobarbital or pentobarbital; aspirin, other salicylates, arthritis medicine such as ibuprofen (Motrin®), or caffeine. You should not use this medicine if you have porphyria. Do not give this medicine to a child who has a fever or symptoms of an infection. This drug should not be taken if you have stomach ulcers or a bleeding disorder.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Capsule

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take and how often.
  • This medicine may be taken with food or milk to avoid stomach upset.
  • Drink plenty of fluids to help avoid constipation.
  • This medicine works best if you take it at the first sign of pain, rather than waiting until the pain is very strong.
  • DO NOT increase your dose without your doctor's approval.
  • If you have taken large amounts of this medicine or have taken it regularly for several weeks, do not suddenly quit using it without consulting your doctor.

If a dose is missed:

  • Take it as soon as possible.
  • If almost time for next dose, wait until then to take your medicine and skip the missed dose.
  • You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store in a tightly closed container away from heat and direct light.
  • Keep all medicine away from children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking any medicines that make you sleepy, such as tranquilizers or sleeping pills.
  • Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine.
  • Steroids, diflunisal, prednisone, or phenylbutazone may cause stomach pain if taken while you are taking this medicine.
  • Tell your doctor if you are taking a blood thinner (such as Coumadin®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Talk with your doctor before taking this medicine if you have asthma, other lung disease, or liver or kidney problems.
  • This medicine can cause drug dependence or addiction.
  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor before taking this medicine.
  • Because this medicine makes some people dizzy or drowsy, be careful when driving a car or using machinery.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Tightness in chest, shortness of breath or trouble breathing
  • Fast, slowed, or pounding heartbeat
  • Skin rash, hives, or intense itching
  • Flushing of the face
  • Swelling of the eyelids or face.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Lightheadedness, dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Upset stomach, constipation, gas
  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Sweating
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