Can you take tizanidine muscle relaxer while breastfeeding?

Understanding Tizanidine and Breastfeeding
Tizanidine, commonly known by its brand name Zanaflex, is a prescription muscle relaxant primarily used to manage muscle spasms associated with conditions such as multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries. As a centrally acting alpha-2 receptor agonist, it works by inhibiting nerve signals that cause muscle tightness and spasms. However, for nursing mothers, the question of whether it is safe to use tizanidine while breastfeeding is a significant concern.
Safety Concerns for Nursing Mothers
The consensus among healthcare professionals is that tizanidine is not recommended for use during breastfeeding. This caution stems from the fact that muscle relaxants, including tizanidine, can pass into breast milk. The potential for adverse effects on a nursing infant is a primary reason for this recommendation. Infants exposed to tizanidine through breast milk may experience drowsiness or other side effects, which can be particularly concerning for their development and overall health.
Recommendations from Health Experts
Experts advise that nursing mothers should carefully weigh the benefits of taking tizanidine against the potential risks to their child. The American Academy of Pediatrics generally recommends avoiding medications that can cause sedation or other side effects in infants. Given that tizanidine can lead to such effects, it is crucial for mothers to discuss alternative treatments with their healthcare providers.
Conclusion
In summary, while tizanidine is effective for managing muscle spasms, its use during breastfeeding poses risks that cannot be overlooked. Nursing mothers should consult with their healthcare providers to explore safer alternatives for muscle relaxation and to ensure the well-being of their infants. The health and safety of both mother and child should always be the top priority when considering medication during breastfeeding.

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

Who should not take tizanidine?

You should not use tizanidine if you are allergic to it, or if: you also take the antidepressant fluvoxamine (Luvox); or. you also take the antibiotic ciprofloxacin (Cipro).

Is tizanidine safe in breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding Considerations: Tizanidine is a lipid-soluble drug; hypothetically, it may be present in breast milk; its use during lactation is not advised.

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.

Is tizanidine muscle relaxer safe during pregnancy?

However, high doses of tizanidine resulted in early pregnancy in some animal studies. Tizanidine hasn’t been adequately studied in pregnant women. Based on the lack of human reproductive data, it’s also recommended to avoid tizanidine unless the benefits outweigh the risks.

Is tizanidine 4 mg an opioid?

No, tizanidine (Zanaflex) isn’t a narcotic. A narcotic is an opioid pain reliever. Tizanidine (Zanaflex) is a muscle relaxer and doesn’t treat pain the same way a narcotic medication does.

Are there any muscle relaxers you can take while pregnant?

Baclofen use may occasionally be advised in pregnancy if it is needed to control severe muscle spasms.

What muscle relaxer can I take while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding while taking baclofen:
No harmful effects in nursing infants have been reported.

How long does tizanidine muscle relaxer stay in your system?

Tizanidine (Zanaflex) is a muscle relaxer that’s prescribed to treat muscle spasticity. Tizanidine’s half-life is about 2.5 hours. It typically stays in the body for about 10 to 12 hours. However, its effects only last about 3 to 6 hours.