Fioricet Side Effects

Fioricet is the brand name for a combination medication prescribed to treat migraines and tension headaches. It contains the pain reliever acetaminophen, the barbiturate butalbital to relax muscle contractions and caffeine to improve blood flow. Several side effects are possible. Taking the medicine along with food or milk can help minimize unpleasant reactions. Call your doctor if you experience alarming side effects or side effects that linger more than a day or two.

Most Common Effects

• The most common side effects associated with Fioricet include confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, jittery feelings and light-headedness. These side effects tend to disappear after a few days.

Gastrointestinal Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal side effects can occur while taking Fioricet, such as abdominal pain, loss of appetite and nausea.

Serious Side Effects

• More serious side effects can occur but are rare. These include heart palpitations, rapid heartbeat, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, low fever and abnormal bruising or bleeding.

Liver Concerns

• Liver problems may result from taking Fioricet. Symptoms include jaundice, dark urine and nausea. The risk increases with alcohol use.

Fioricet With Codeine

• Fioricet also is available with codeine. The most common side effects with this medication are abdominal pain, dizziness, drowsiness, intoxicated feelings, light-headedness, nausea and vomiting, sedation and shortness of breath.