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Compare Elavil vs. Fioricet

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Amitriptyline (formerly branded as Elavil) and Fioricet (butalbital/acetaminophen/caffeine) are both prescription medications, but they serve different purposes and belong to different drug classes. Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) primarily used to treat depression, though it is also used off-label for nerve pain and migraine prevention. In contrast, Fioricet is a combination medication used to treat tension headaches and includes a barbiturate (butalbital), an analgesic (acetaminophen), and caffeine. Amitriptyline is taken daily, while Fioricet is taken as needed, typically every 4 hours. Amitriptyline can cause side effects like sleepiness and weight gain, whereas Fioricet can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and has a risk of misuse and dependence. Additionally, Fioricet can lead to liver damage if taken in excess due to its acetaminophen content. Unlike amitriptyline, Fioricet is controlled in some states because of its potential for dependence. Both medications are available in generic forms, making them more affordable options.

  • Amitriptyline
    Fioricet
  • Amitriptyline
    Fioricet

  • Summary of Elavil vs. Fioricet

    Summary for Tricyclic antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Amitriptyline is FDA approved to treat depression. But it isn't as commonly used today as other antidepressants because it can cause a lot of side effects, such as sleepiness and weight gain. In addition, amitriptyline has many interactions with other medications, including other antidepressants, sedatives, and antihistamines. But despite the side effects and interactions, amitriptyline is often used off label for nerve pain due to diabetes and migraine prevention. While its brand name Elavil is no longer available, amitriptyline is available as a generic medication.

    Summary for Barbiturate / Analgesic / Adenosine antagonist
    Prescription only

    Fioricet is a combination medication containing butalbital, acetaminophen, and caffeine. It's taken by mouth as needed, typically every 4 hours, to treat tension headaches. But it's not a first-choice option because it can become habit-forming and can worsen headaches if taken too frequently. In addition, Fioricet can cause side effects, such as sleepiness and dizziness. It's available as pills and an oral syrup.

  • Indications of Elavil vs. Fioricet

    Indications for
    •Depression
    Indications for
    •Tension headaches

  • Pros and Cons of Elavil vs. Fioricet

    Pros and Const for Tricyclic antidepressant
    Pros
    •Available in many different strengths
    •Available as a lower-cost, generic form
    •Can take with or without food
    Cons
    •Has many unpleasant side effects compared to other antidepressants
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it after long-term use
    •Not the best choice for people with heart problems, glaucoma, or seizures or people age 65 years and older
    Pros and Const for Barbiturate / Analgesic / Adenosine antagonist
    Pros
    •Available as a lower-cost, generic medication
    •Combination of three medications in a single dosage form (e.g., pill, liquid), which is more convenient
    •Available in a liquid form as a fruit punch-flavored syrup
    •Can be used in people as young as 12 years old
    Cons
    •Can cause misuse and physical dependence, so it's a controlled substance in some states
    •Not a first-choice medication for treating tension headaches
    •Might cause liver damage because of the acetaminophen
    •More difficult to customize the dose since it's a combination of three medications

  • Common Side Effects of Elavil vs. Fioricet

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dizziness
    •Weakness
    •Fatigue
    •Headache
    •Dry mouth
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Constipation
    •Weight gain
    Common Side Effects for
    •Drowsiness
    •Lightheadedness
    •Dizziness
    •Loss of awareness (sedation)
    •Trouble breathing
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Stomach pain
    •Feeling "high" (intoxicated)

  • Warnings of Elavil vs. Fioricet

    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
    •Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
    •Risk of heart problems, heart attack, or stroke
    •Seizures
    •Glaucoma
    •Higher risk of falls
    Common Side Effects for
    •Liver damage
    •Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
    •Serious skin or allergic reactions
    •Misuse, dependence, and withdrawal

  • Prices with our coupons for Elavil vs. Fioricet

    Learn more about Amitriptyline
    Learn more about Fioricet

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