By Edmund Murphy

Last updated: 05 April 2024 & medically reviewed by Dr. Kimberly Langdon

Fioricet is a prescription medication used to treat tension headaches and migraines. As those who require the drug are in need of quick pain relief, the effectiveness rate of the drug is highly important.

Key takeaways:

  • The half-life of butalbital is relatively long, lasting on average 35 hours. Regular administration of Fioricet has a cumulative effect meaning side effects of the drugs may be felt for longer.

  • Do not take Fioricet if you have taken an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine in the past 14 days.

  • If you are taking Fioricet for migraines or tension headaches and it is having little to no effect, then contact your doctor. Do not take more than the recommended dose of Fioricet.

Fioricet responsiveness and effectiveness

The acetaminophen in Fioricet provides pain relief within 30-60 minutes of taking the drug. The butalbital provides muscle-relaxing effects when it is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tracts, usually within two hours of administration. Caffeine is processed into the bloodstream quickly and helps speed up the effectiveness of the other components of Fioricet. 

The half-life of butalbital is relatively long, lasting on average 35 hours. Regular administration of Fioricet has a cumulative effect meaning side effects of the drugs may be felt for longer.

What to know before taking Fioricet

Fioricet can have potentially harmful effects when taken in conjunction with other substances. Do not take Fioricet if you have taken an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine in the past 14 days.

Fioricet use can also cause an allergic reaction if you are allergic to acetaminophen, butalbital, or caffeine. It should also not be used if you have recently taken sedatives, benzodiazepines, narcotic medications, or used alcohol. 

As Fioricet is only available under prescription, It is important to inform your doctor if you have one of the below preexisting medical conditions before taking Fioricet:

  • Porphyria

  • Liver disease (including cirrhosis)

  • Kidney disease

  • Asthma  

  • Sleep apnea

  • Breathing disorders

  • Stomach ulcers

  • Are using blood thinners

  • A history of mental illness

  • Skin conditions resulting from medication

  • A history of substance abuse

What if Fioricet doesn’t work?

The combination of acetaminophen, butalbital, or caffeine in Fioricet is designed to relieve pain and relax muscles within two hours. If you are taking Fioricet for migraines or tension headaches and it is having little to no effect, then contact your doctor. Do not take more than the recommended dose of Fioricet. Taking too much of the drug can lead to a fatal overdose. If you or someone you know is suffering from a Fioricet use disorder then visit our rehab directory to find a treatment option near you.