Can you breastfeed after taking a muscle relaxer?

Understanding the Safety of Breastfeeding After Taking Muscle Relaxers
Breastfeeding is a cherished experience for many mothers, and understanding the complexities of medication use during this time is crucial for the health of both mother and child. One common concern among nursing mothers is whether it is safe to breastfeed after taking muscle relaxers.
The Basics of Muscle Relaxers
Muscle relaxers, also known as muscle relaxants, are medications typically prescribed to relieve muscle spasms, pain, and discomfort. They work by acting on the central nervous system to reduce muscle tension. Common muscle relaxers include cyclobenzaprine, baclofen, and methocarbamol. While these medications can be effective, their effects on breastfeeding mothers and infants require careful consideration.
How Muscle Relaxers Affect Breastfeeding
The primary concern with taking muscle relaxers while breastfeeding is the potential transfer of the drug into breast milk. Most of these medications have been studied, and while some do pass into breast milk, the levels are often low. For instance, cyclobenzaprine has been shown to appear in breast milk in small amounts, but studies suggest that it may not pose a significant risk to nursing infants when taken in prescribed doses.
Recommendations for Nursing Mothers
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Before taking any muscle relaxer, it is essential for nursing mothers to discuss their medication options with their healthcare provider. A doctor can assess the specific muscle relaxer, the dosage, and the timing in relation to breastfeeding.
2. Timing Doses: If a muscle relaxer is necessary, taking the medication right after breastfeeding may minimize exposure for the infant. This allows time for the drug to clear from the mother’s system before the next feeding.
3. Monitor the Baby: Mothers should be vigilant in observing their infant for any unusual symptoms, such as excessive drowsiness, feeding difficulties, or irritability, after taking a muscle relaxer.
4. Consider Alternatives: In some cases, non-pharmacological treatments or alternative medications may be available that pose less risk during breastfeeding.
Conclusion
While it is generally possible to breastfeed after taking a muscle relaxer, it is imperative to approach this situation with caution and informed decision-making. Each case is unique, and the safety of both mother and child should always be the top priority. By consulting healthcare professionals and making informed choices, nursing mothers can navigate the complexities of medication use while ensuring the well-being of their infants.

Can you breastfeed with muscle relaxers?

You should observe your infant for sedation. The time the medication is highest in your milk is the first two hours after you take your dose, so try to avoid breastfeeding during that time. Methocarbamol (Robaxin) is a centrally acting sedative and skeletal muscle relaxant.

What if baby drinks bad breast milk?

If your baby has had spoiled breast milk, they’ll likely let you know. They may throw up, or have an upset stomach, diarrhea or fever. It’s important to call your pediatrician if you think your baby may be sick from having spoiled breast milk.

Which pain medication should be avoided in breastfeeding mothers?

Products containing codeine are not recommended when you are breastfeeding. Small amounts of codeine can pass through to your baby in your breastmilk and may cause drowsiness or breathing problems.

Can muscle relaxers harm pregnancy?

In these studies, there was no evidence of harm to the parent or baby. And while there’s little evidence to say it causes harm to human babies, some small case reports show potential complications if it’s used in the third trimester.

Can you take muscle relaxers in nursing?

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.

Can I take a muscle relaxer while pregnant?

And while there’s little evidence to say it causes harm to human babies, some small case reports show potential complications if it’s used in the third trimester. Cyclobenzaprine use in pregnancy is most likely safe — mainly in the first or second trimesters.

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.

How long do you have to wait to breastfeed after taking a pain pill?

The amount that transfers into breast milk is 2.2-3.7% of your dose. We think short term use is probably ok if you do not exceed 40mg in 24 hours. We recommend taking the medication after nursing so you have a break before nursing again as the medication peaks in the breast milk in the first 2 hours after taking it.

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.

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