Hi all,

I was wondering two things here. Is anyone else having trouble getting Fioricet (or Fiorinal)at their pharmacy? Is Esgic Plus really a good substitute? My pharmacy has informed me that they cannot get any Fioicet(or the generic) due to a shortage of the ingredients that go into the drug. I asked them what they thought a good substitue was; one that my doctor could call in and they suggested Esgic Plus. Can anyone out there give me any info? I hate to think that I only have Imitrex to fight my migraines. I have safely used Fioricet for years to prevent small headaches from becoming big ones. Any input on this dilemma would be appreciated!

I used to take Esgic Plus many years ago and it is the same thing as Firornal/Firocet...Butabital, Caffiene, Tylenol or Asprin. It works great for headaches, especially those headaches caused by tension. The butabital is a mild tranquilizer and will relax you. You should have no problem taking it if you are taking Fironal.

I take Esgic Plus regularly for my headaches. It is *exactly* the same as Fiorcet, *except* that it has more tylenol in it. Each Esgic Plus has 500 mg tylenol vs. 325 (I believe) of the Fiorcet. But it has the same amounts of butalbital and caffiene as Fiorcet.

FWIW, if your insurance will pay for it, have your doc prescribe BRAND NAME ONLY. My neuro (who is one of the best in the country) will not even prescribe the generic. He hates it and says it doesn't work nearly as well as the brand name. Having never taken the generic, I can't say for sure, but the brand name works great. I've been using it as needed for years.