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Can I breastfeed while taking cyclobenzaprine?

Can I Breastfeed While Taking Cyclobenzaprine?
Breastfeeding mothers often face the challenge of managing their health while ensuring the safety of their infants. One common medication that raises questions in this context is cyclobenzaprine, a muscle relaxant typically prescribed for muscle spasms. The good news is that current evidence suggests that breastfeeding while taking cyclobenzaprine is generally considered safe, but there are important nuances to consider.
Minimal Transfer to Breast Milk
Research indicates that cyclobenzaprine transfers into breast milk in very small amounts. Studies have shown that the concentrations of the drug in human milk are low, with a calculated relative infant dose of only about 0.5% of the maternal dose. This suggests that the exposure for breastfed infants is minimal, and in cases where mothers have taken the medication, infants have reportedly tolerated it well.
Monitoring is Key
While the low levels of cyclobenzaprine in breast milk are reassuring, healthcare providers recommend that mothers who are breastfeeding and taking this medication should monitor their infants for any potential side effects. Key indicators to watch for include drowsiness, adequate weight gain, and overall developmental progress. This is particularly important if the mother is taking other medications that may also cause sedation, as the combined effects could be more pronounced.
Consulting Healthcare Providers
It is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to have open discussions with their healthcare providers about their specific situations. Doctors can tailor the dosage of cyclobenzaprine to minimize any risks while ensuring that the mother’s health needs are met. In some cases, especially with newborns or preterm infants, healthcare providers may suggest alternative treatments that have a more established safety profile during breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding while taking cyclobenzaprine is generally considered safe due to the minimal transfer of the drug into breast milk. However, vigilant monitoring of the infant’s response is essential, and mothers should always consult their healthcare providers to make informed decisions tailored to their health and their baby’s well-being.

Which muscle relaxant is safe in breastfeeding?

One study found that very low amounts of baclofen enter the breastmilk when baclofen is taken by mouth. When baclofen is used topically or by intrathecal pump, even less of the medication is expected to pass into breastmilk. No harmful effects in nursing infants have been reported.

What medications should be avoided while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

  • codeine phosphate.
  • decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
  • some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
  • aspirin for pain relief.

Who cannot take cyclobenzaprine?

Heart disease, irregular heartbeat, or previous heart attack. Liver disease. Thyroid problem. An unusual or allergic reaction to cyclobenzaprine, tricyclic antidepressants, lactose, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.

Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?

Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.

Drug Comment
Iodine High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism
Lithium Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring
Radiopharmaceuticals Contact obstetric information service
Retinoids (oral) Potential for serious adverse effects

What kind of relaxer is safe during pregnancy?

Chemical products designed to straighten or relax hair are generally considered to be safe to use during pregnancy. However, you should avoid products that contain substances called endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and products that release formaldehyde when they’re heated.

Is cyclobenzaprine safe while breastfeeding?

There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.

Is cyclobenzaprine safe during pregnancy?

Cyclobenzaprine use in pregnancy is most likely safe — mainly in the first or second trimesters. But you should only use it under the supervision of a healthcare provider at the lowest dose for the shortest amount of time possible.

How long does cyclobenzaprine stay in your system?

How Long Does Flexeril Stay in Your Blood? Flexeril stays in your blood for three to eight days. Again, the half-life can be anywhere from 8 to 32 hours and it builds up in your system over time.

Can you get a relaxer while breastfeeding?

Information about having hair treatments while breastfeeding is limited. However, the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists states that it is highly unlikely that a significant amount of the chemicals used would enter the breastmilk because very little enters the mother’s bloodstream.

What can I take for muscle pain while breastfeeding?

Paracetamol is the first choice pain medication during breastfeeding. While it appears in breast milk, the amount is too small to cause harm to your baby. Sometimes paracetamol alone may not control your pain. In this case a non- steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID), for example ibuprofen, can also be taken.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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