Butalbital/Aspirin/Codeine/Caffeine (By Mouth)

Aspirin (AS-pir-in), Butalbital (byoo-TAL-bi-tal), Caffeine (kaf-EEN), Codeine (KOE-deen)

Relieves headaches and pain. Butalbital belongs to a group of drugs known as barbiturates. Codeine is a narcotic pain reliever.

Brand Name(s):

Fiorinal w/Codeine, Ascomp w/Codeine
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to butalbital or related medicines such as phenobarbital or pentobarbital, arthritis medicine such as ibuprofen (Motrin®) or indomethacin (Indocin®), aspirin, codeine, or caffeine. This product should not be used by patients with porphyria, stomach ulcers, or a bleeding disorder, such as hemophilia.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.
• This medicine may be taken with food or milk to avoid stomach upset.
• This medicine works best if you take it at the first sign of headache or pain.
• Drink plenty of fluids with this medicine to avoid constipation.
• If you have taken large amounts of this medicine or have taken it regularly for several weeks, do not suddenly stop taking it without talking to your doctor.

If a dose is missed:

• Take as soon as possible
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store in 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.

• Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine.
• Avoid taking drugs that can make you sleepy such as tranquilizers, sleeping pills, and some cough and cold medicines.
• Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking a blood-thinning medicine (Coumadin®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• This medicine should not be taken by children or teenagers with symptoms of the flu or other viral infection.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have asthma, other lung problems, or heart, liver, or kidney disease.
• This medicine can be habit-forming. DO NOT increase your dose unless your doctor tells you to do so.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to 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 of the chest or trouble breathing
• Fast, slowed, or pounding heartbeat
• Skin rash, hives, or intense itching
• Swelling of the eyelids, face, or lips
• Black or bloody stools
• Ringing in the ears

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

• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Nausea, vomiting, upset stomach
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.