Generic Name of Fioricet
Fioricet is the brand name for a combination medication containing butalbital, acetaminophen, and caffeine 1.
Specific Components
The generic formulation consists of three active ingredients 1:
- Butalbital 50 mg (a short to intermediate-acting barbiturate)
- Acetaminophen 300 mg (non-opiate analgesic and antipyretic)
- Caffeine 40 mg (central nervous system stimulant)
Prescribing Considerations
When prescribing or dispensing this medication, you can write it as:
- "Butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine" (the complete generic name)
- "Butalbital/APAP/caffeine" (common abbreviation)
- The specific formulation: 50 mg/300 mg/40 mg
Important Clinical Caveat
Butalbital has significant potential for tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal 2, 3. The barbiturate component can lead to:
- Physical dependence with chronic use (even at prescribed doses)
- Severe withdrawal syndrome requiring hospitalization if abruptly discontinued 2, 3
- Medication-overuse headaches and chronification of migraine 4
- CNS depression and driving impairment 5
Patients taking this medication daily for extended periods (particularly >6 weeks) are at substantial risk for dependence 2. Withdrawal can manifest as seizures, autonomic instability, and delirium requiring phenobarbital treatment 3.