Fioricet (generic: butalbital, acetaminophen, and caffeine) is a prescription medication used to treat symptoms of tension headache. It is a single tablet containing 3 medications, butalbital, acetaminophen, and caffeine. Butalbital is thought to work by relaxing muscles of the neck. Aspirin is thought to provide pain relief. It is not entirely understood how caffeine works to treat the symptoms of a tension headache.

This medication comes in tablet form. One to two tablets are taken every 4 hours as needed not to exceed times 6 tablets a day. Fioricet may be taken with or without food.

Common side effects of Fioricet include shortness of breath, nausea, drowsiness, and lightheadedness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Fioricet affects you.