Can I breastfeed while taking Flexeril?

Understanding Flexeril and Breastfeeding
Flexeril, known generically as cyclobenzaprine, is a muscle relaxant often prescribed to relieve muscle spasms and discomfort. However, when it comes to breastfeeding, many mothers may have concerns about the safety of taking medications like Flexeril.
The Impact of Flexeril on Breastfeeding
According to existing research, cyclobenzaprine is classified as a Category B drug by the FDA for pregnancy. This means that while animal studies have not shown any adverse effects, human studies are limited. The primary concern for breastfeeding mothers is whether Flexeril can pass into breast milk and affect an infant.
Pharmacokinetics and Transfer to Breast Milk
Cyclobenzaprine is metabolized in the liver and has a relatively low oral bioavailability. Studies on the drug’s excretion in breast milk indicate that it does transfer to breast milk but in small amounts. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that cyclobenzaprine is considered compatible with breastfeeding, and the levels found in breast milk are unlikely to cause harm to a breastfeeding infant.
Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
While the consensus suggests that taking Flexeril while breastfeeding is relatively safe, mothers should consider the following:
1. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Always discuss any medications with your doctor or a lactation consultant. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

2. Monitor Your Baby: If you start taking Flexeril, monitor your baby for any unusual behavior or signs of sedation, such as excessive sleepiness or difficulty feeding.
3. Timing of Doses: If possible, consider timing your doses of Flexeril after breastfeeding sessions. This could minimize the amount of medication available in your system during feeding times.
4. Alternative Treatments: If you’re concerned about the effects of Flexeril, ask your healthcare provider about alternative treatments for muscle pain that may have a safer profile during breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, while Flexeril does pass into breast milk, the amounts are generally considered low and unlikely to harm a breastfeeding infant. Nevertheless, it is crucial for mothers to engage in an open dialogue with their healthcare providers to ensure the best outcomes for both themselves and their babies. Always prioritize safety and informed choices when it comes to medication use during breastfeeding.

Which drugs Cannot be taken when breastfeeding?

ANSWER: Only a few drugs pose a clinically significant risk to breastfed babies. In general, antineoplastics, drugs of abuse, some anticonvulsants, ergot alkaloids, and radiopharmaceuticals should not be taken, and levels of amiodarone, cyclosporine, and lithium should be monitored.

Is Flexeril pregnancy safe?

Pregnancy Category B: Reproduction studies have been performed in rats, mice and rabbits at doses up to 20 times the human dose, and have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to FLEXERIL.

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.

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 is the strongest painkiller I can take while breastfeeding?

Morphine (Oramorph®, Actimorph®) is the strong opioid of choice while breastfeeding. It can be used with caution at the lowest effective dose, for the shortest possible duration. Oral morphine is frequently given to mothers after a caesarean section. You can use it with caution when breastfeeding.

Can I take a Flexeril while breastfeeding?

Cyclobenzaprine Breastfeeding Warnings
Caution is recommended. The effects in the nursing infant are unknown. This drug has been shown to be excreted in rat milk and achieve concentrations in the milk which are 50% of those in the rat maternal plasma.

Which muscle relaxant is safe for breastfeeding?

Amounts of cyclobenzaprine in milk appear to be very small and two infants apparently tolerated the drug in milk well. If cyclobenzaprine is required by the mother, it is not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding.

How long does Flexeril stay in your system?

Due to Flexeril’s half-life, it can stay detectable for up to three to eight days for people who took higher doses. In contrast, if a person of average weight takes the regular recommended dosage, the drug will be undetectable in their urine four days after the previous dose.

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.

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