Fioricet is a prescription medication that combines three active ingredients: acetaminophen (a pain reliever and fever reducer), butalbital (a barbiturate), and caffeine. It's primarily used to treat tension headaches and certain types of migraines.
Acetaminophen helps reduce pain and fever, while butalbital is a barbiturate that acts as a central nervous system depressant, helping to relax muscles and ease tension. Caffeine is included in Fioricet to enhance the effects of acetaminophen and can also help constrict blood vessels, which might be beneficial in some types of headaches.