Acetaminophen/Butalbital/Codeine
Acetaminophen/Butalbital/Codeine is a prescription combination medication used to treat tension-type headaches and migraines when other pain relievers are ineffective. It combines three active ingredients—a pain reliever/fever reducer (acetaminophen), a barbiturate sedative (butalbital), and an opioid pain medication (codeine)—to address both the physical pain and tension associated with severe headaches.
A triple-action prescription medication for severe tension headaches and migraines combining an analgesic, sedative, and opioid.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 689563
- Generic
- Acetaminophen / Butalbital / Codeine
- Class
- multi-ingredient
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treats tension-type headaches and migraine attacks, particularly when associated with muscle tension and anxiety. Used when simpler analgesics have failed to provide adequate relief.
Acetaminophen inhibits pain signals in the nervous system, butalbital produces relaxation and reduces anxiety through CNS depression, and codeine binds to opioid receptors to enhance pain relief. The three components work synergistically to address both the physical and tension-related components of severe headaches.
Contains both an opioid and barbiturate, carrying significant risk of physical dependence, tolerance, and addiction with prolonged use. Should only be used short-term and exactly as prescribed. High acetaminophen doses can cause serious liver damage. Causes sedation—avoid driving or operating machinery. Combining with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other CNS depressants increases overdose risk.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy