is butalbital a controlled substance?

[confused]

I had brain surgery in 1990 for a cerebral aneurysm. I've been being prescribed Fioricet since then, as I have bad reactions to aspirin, n-saids, SSRI'S, the newer anti-depressants, most recently Depakote, and the codeine family. Fioricet is the only thing that keeps me from getting what I call my "Killer headaches from hell!" My doc said he won't give me anymore Fioricet because it's very addicting and you're supposed to take only 2 per day. I searched PlanetRx and it says Fioricet is not a controlled substance and that the maximum dosage recommendation is 6 tablets per day. Yet, because of anxiety and depression, he has been dishing out first Xanax, (but it made my headaches worse) then Valium like they were candy! I checked with PlanetRx and both benzodiazepines are controlled substances and highly addictive. I realize that the Butalbital in Fioricet is also addictive--if this is true, then why isn't it a controlled substance? Also, after taking 4-6 tablets per day for the past 10 years, why can I go for days without it and not have severe withdrawal reactions? I'd appreciate any information you can give me, as I can't seem to find out much on the web. Thank you.

[tammycats]

I am a opiod recovering addict.... I was recently in an automobile accident and was prescribed Fiorcet for my severe headaches.  Should I been concerned?!?!?
From,
Concerned recovering addict

[Brighty]

I'm wondering the same thing since I just learned that Soma is extremely addictive and it is not controlled either. I do know that trafficking trends play a part in starting legislation to contol substances. I hope we see an answer to your question.

[gee]

Fioricet is not considered a controlled substance, although I'm not sure why.  Fiorinal is and fiorinal or fioricet w/codeine definitely is.  The maximum dose per day is six tablets.  It is addicting, but it depends on how you use it.

If it's the only thing that helps you, I'd suggest finding another doctor who will understand and prescribe the fioricet, with monitoring.

Xanax is addicting also, and if he's prescribing that, he's not too concerned about your dependence on it.

Anyway, I hope this gives you some insight.  And I hope you're able to have what helps you.  Good luck!