Fioricet (Esgic)

Fioricet, also sold under the brand Esgic, is a combined analgesic, containing three active ingredients: acetaminophen, butalbital and caffeine. This non-narcotic combination is used to treat tension headaches. Also, it may be prescribed for migraine that does not respond to other pain relievers.

Description	Quantity	Pharmacy	Price	Buy
Butalbital 50/325/40 mg	30 tablets	MPLLC	$79
Butalbital 50/325/40 mg	60 tablets	MPLLC	$85
Butalbital 50/325/40 mg	90 tablets	MPLLC	$89
Fioricet 50/325/40 mg	30 tablets	MPLLC	$117
Fioricet 50/325/40 mg	60 tablets	MPLLC	$169
Fioricet 50/325/40 mg	90 tablets	MPLLC	$229

You should know the following information about Fioricet:

• If you have severe breathing problems (e.g., bronchopneumonia), or enzyme disorder called porphyria - Fioricet is not for you and you need to discuss with healthcare provider possible alternative treatments such as NSAIDs, triptans, acupuncture, biofeedback, or 5-HTP.
• Fioricet is better than acetaminophen with codeine in the treatment of chronic recurring tension headache.1
• Normal, limited use is usually safe and effective, with only occasional and mild side effects.2
• On the other hand, frequent or prolonged use can lead to "rebound" headaches and tolerance.

How to take

• Fioricet may cause you to become drowsy or less alert. Driving or participating in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness is not recommended until you know your response to Fioricet.
• Butalbital slows the central nervous system (CNS) and intensifies the effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants. Concurrent use with alcohol may also cause overdose symptoms.
• The most frequent side effects are drowsiness, lightheadedness, dizziness, sedation, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, and intoxicated feeling.
• Most people taking Fioricet do not have dependency problems. However, it carries a risk of habituation. Mental and physical dependence can occur with Fioricet is it is used in higher than recommended doses or over long periods of time.

Dosage

One or two tablets every four hours as needed or as directed by your doctor. Total daily dosage should not exceed 6 tablets. Extended and repeated use of Fioricet is not recommended because of the potential for tolerance and dependence.

Fioricet will relieve a headache better if you take it as soon as the headache begins. People suffering from frequent recurring headaches may need something different to help prevent headaches.

When the use of Fioricet climbs to three or more days per week, it is time to initiate a preventive therapy to reduce the frequency of headaches and limit consumption of as-needed analgesic.

Don't use Esgic or Fioricet without absolute necessity. People with non-disabling headaches don't require such a powerful mixture.

• 1. Friedman AP, DiSerio FJ. Symptomatic treatment of chronically recurring tension headache: a placebo-controlled, multicenter investigation of Fioricet and acetaminophen with codeine. Clin Ther. 1987;10(1):69-81.
• 2. Solomon S. Butalbital-containing agents: should they be banned? No. Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2002 Apr;6(2):147-50.