Fioricet With Codeine Addiction | Side Effects, Drug Schedule, & Withdrawal Symptoms

Fioricet with Codeine is a prescription medication that contains a combination of acetaminophen, butalbital, codeine, and caffeine for pain relief. Another brand name for this combination is Phrenilin with Caffeine and Codeine.

Fioricet with Codeine isn’t recommended for patients with head injuries, porphyria, or sleep apnea, as well as nursing mothers who are breastfeeding.

This drug is only meant to be used on a limited basis, since it can become habit-forming when used for long periods of time or taken in high doses. For those who struggle with Fioricet with Codeine addiction, professional treatment options are available.

What Is Fioricet With Codeine?

Fioricet with Codeine is sometimes used for treating tension headaches when other medications have been ineffective. It is a narcotic analgesic that works by relieving moderate to severe pain.

This medication has the following ingredients:

• Codeine: This is a type of opioid that carries a higher risk of addiction and abuse compared to other substances.
• Butalbital: This is a barbiturate substance that can become habit-forming, especially when it is used for a prolonged period of time.
• Acetaminophen: This pain-relieving substance has a risk of causing severe liver damage and other adverse reactions when it is taken in larger doses.
• Caffeine: This substance stimulates the central nervous system (CNS) and helps relieve pain.

If you take Fioricet with Codeine and experience an allergic reaction, please contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

Can You Get High On Fioricet With Codeine?

Due to the butalbital and codeine in this medication, you can get high on Fioricet with Codeine. 

As a barbiturate, butalbital increases a neurotransmitter called GABA in the brain. This leads to CNS depression, which can make you feel euphoric or high. As an opioid designed for pain relief, codeine also causes feelings of relaxation and euphoria. 

Getting high on Fioricet with Codeine can feel similar to alcohol intoxication, especially if the drug is mixed with other CNS depressants or taken in large doses.

Fioricet With Codeine Drug Schedule

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies Fioricet with Codeine as a Schedule III drug. Drugs with this classification have a low or moderate risk of leading to psychological and physical dependence. 

This risk is lower than drugs that fall under Schedule I and II, such as heroin, marijuana, methamphetamine, cocaine, and oxycodone. 

However, the potential for substance abuse with this drug is higher than substances in Schedule IV and V, such as Xanax, Valium, Ambien, Robitussin, and Lyrica.

Side Effects Of Fioricet With Codeine

Taking Fioricet with Codeine in high doses or for an extended period of time can result in addiction and other serious side effects. Both codeine and butalbital have a high risk of causing addiction and dependence. 

Possible side effects of Fioricet with Codeine include:

• constipation
• drowsiness
• irritability
• nausea
• upset stomach

Some adverse effects may also include: 

• sleepiness or tiredness
• shortness of breath
• abdominal pain
• fast or irregular heart beat
• paranoia or confusion
• slurred speech
• withdrawal symptoms after stopping use 

If you experience any serious side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Signs Of Fioricet With Codeine Overdose

Fioricet with Codeine overdoses can be life-threatening. Acetaminophen in this medication, which is more likely to cause overdoses than butalbital, can result in serious liver damage or liver disease. 

Those who have any signs of a Fioricet with Codeine overdose may require emergency medical attention:

• jaundice, which causes yellowish eyes and skin
• shallow breathing, respiratory depression, trouble breathing, or other breathing problems
• chest pain
• low blood pressure
• ​pinpoint pupils
• convulsions
• sweating
• agitation
• fainting or loss of consciousness
• abnormal heartbeat

Dangerous drug interactions that increase the risk of overdose include other CNS depressants, such as benzodiazepines, tranquilizers/barbiturates like phenobarbital, or alcohol, as well as MAO inhibitors (antidepressants).  

If you or a loved one are overdosing, contact a poison control center or 9-1-1. An opioid overdose medication called naloxone (Narcan) can reverse the potentially fatal effects. 

Fioricet With Codeine Withdrawal Symptoms & Detox

Fioricet with Codeine can lead to withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking this medication suddenly, especially if you have developed an addiction or dependence to it. 

These withdrawal symptoms can become serious in some cases, and professional care may be required:

• rebound headaches that can be severe
• anxiety
• weakness
• sudden and severe changes in mood
• nausea and vomiting
• sleep problems, such as insomnia
• lightheadedness
• muscle spasms
• seizures, although these are rare

Detox programs can provide you with somewhere safe to go during the withdrawal process. These programs offer medical advice and care if needed, such as for more severe symptoms. 

Keep in mind that going through detox helps you get through withdrawal safely and prepares you to start a professional rehab program.

Fioricet With Codeine Addiction Treatment Options

Since Fioricet with Codeine contains an opioid substance, it can be difficult to overcome addiction without professional treatment. Drug abuse rehab programs can provide the right kind of care to help you recover from addiction. 

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

MAT programs have components that are designed to help those who have an addiction to opioids, such as codeine. These programs use therapy to modify thoughts and behavior, as well as medication to ease withdrawal cravings and other effects.

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient rehab programs, also known as residential treatment, offer around-the-clock access to healthcare professionals. During inpatient treatment, you’ll be staying in a drug rehab facility for a few or more weeks.

Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy is an important part of addiction treatment. This kind of therapy helps you identify thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to addiction. You’ll also learn ways to change these thoughts and behaviors.

To learn more about our treatment programs and services, please contact us today.