Can you take cyclobenzaprine while breastfeeding?

Understanding Cyclobenzaprine and Breastfeeding
Cyclobenzaprine, commonly known by its brand name Flexeril, is a muscle relaxant often prescribed to alleviate muscle spasms and discomfort. For nursing mothers, the question of whether it is safe to take cyclobenzaprine while breastfeeding is crucial, as it directly impacts both maternal health and infant safety.
Safety Profile During Lactation
Research indicates that cyclobenzaprine does transfer into breast milk, but the amounts are reportedly very small. Studies suggest that the relative infant dose is approximately 0.5%, which is considered low. This minimal transfer means that if a breastfeeding mother requires cyclobenzaprine, it is generally not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding. In fact, two infants have been reported to tolerate the drug well without adverse effects.
However, caution is advised. The US National Library of Medicine notes that while the drug can be taken by nursing mothers, it should be done under medical supervision, with a dosage tailored to the individual’s needs. This is particularly important for mothers nursing newborns or preterm infants, as their systems may be more sensitive to medications.
Monitoring and Recommendations
Given cyclobenzaprine’s sedative properties, healthcare providers recommend regular monitoring of the infant for any signs of drowsiness or developmental issues. This is crucial, as the potential for sedation in infants poses a risk, especially if the mother is taking other sedative medications concurrently.
While there is no extensive published experience regarding the use of cyclobenzaprine during breastfeeding, the consensus among medical professionals leans towards cautious use. Alternatives with shorter half-lives may be preferred, particularly for mothers who are concerned about the effects on their infants.
Conclusion
In summary, cyclobenzaprine can be taken while breastfeeding, but it should be approached with caution. The low levels found in breast milk suggest that it is generally safe, yet ongoing monitoring of the infant is essential to ensure their well-being. Mothers should always consult with their healthcare providers to determine the best course of action tailored to their specific circumstances.

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.

Can you take muscle relaxers in nursing?

Yes, you can take Flexeril while breastfeeding, but it’s important to do so under the guidance of your healthcare provider. Flexeril is a muscle relaxant commonly used to relieve skeletal muscle spasms and associated pain.

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.

Which painkiller should be avoided during breastfeeding?

Codeine and dihydrocodeine are weak opioids that are available over the counter in combination with other medications described above. Codeine is not recommended when you are breastfeeding.

Which muscle relaxant is safe in lactating mothers?

Summary of Use during Lactation
Limited information indicates that orally administered baclofen appears in low levels in milk and would not be expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants, especially if the infant is older than 2 months.

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 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.

Can you take 10 mg of cyclobenzaprine while pregnant?

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.

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.