• Basic Info
• Top Questions

What is this medicine?

ACETAMINOPHEN; BUTALBITAL (a set a MEE noe fen; byoo TAL bi tal) is a pain reliever. It is used to treat tension headaches.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• drink more than 3 alcohol containing drinks per day
• drug abuse or addiction
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• porphyria
• an unusual or allergic reaction to acetaminophen, butalbital or other barbiturates, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Patients over 65 years old may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• alcohol

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• antihistamines for allergy, cough and cold
• any medicine that contains acetaminophen
• barbiturates like phenobarbital
• female hormones, including contraceptive or birth control pills
• MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
• medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
• medicines for pain
• medicines for sleep
• muscle relaxants
• other narcotic medicines
• warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

Last Updated: March 12, 2009