Is Flexeril muscle relaxer safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding Flexeril and Breastfeeding Safety
Flexeril, known generically as cyclobenzaprine, is a muscle relaxant commonly prescribed to alleviate muscle spasms and discomfort. For breastfeeding mothers, the question of whether it is safe to use Flexeril while nursing is crucial, as it directly impacts both maternal health and infant safety.
Safety Profile of Flexeril During Breastfeeding
Research indicates that cyclobenzaprine does pass into breast milk, but the amounts are reportedly very small. According to findings, two infants who were exposed to the drug through breast milk appeared to tolerate it well, suggesting that significant adverse effects are unlikely when the medication is used in moderation. However, it is essential for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting Flexeril, as individual circumstances can vary widely.
Monitoring for Side Effects
While the consensus is that limited use of Flexeril is generally safe for breastfeeding mothers, vigilance is advised. Healthcare professionals recommend monitoring the infant for any potential side effects, such as drowsiness or inadequate weight gain. This monitoring is crucial, as even small amounts of medication can affect a nursing baby, particularly in the early months when infants are more sensitive to substances in breast milk.
Professional Guidance is Key
The importance of professional medical advice cannot be overstated. Mothers considering Flexeril should engage in a thorough discussion with their doctors about the necessity of the medication, potential risks, and the best practices for monitoring their infant’s health. This collaborative approach ensures that both the mother’s needs and the baby’s safety are prioritized.
Conclusion
In summary, while Flexeril can be used by breastfeeding mothers under medical supervision, it is vital to proceed with caution. The small amounts that transfer into breast milk are generally considered safe, but close monitoring of the infant is essential to catch any adverse reactions early. Always consult a healthcare provider to make informed decisions regarding medication use while breastfeeding.

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

Can you breastfeed on Flexeril?

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.

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.

Is Flexeril safe 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.

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.

Is Flexeril ok to take while breastfeeding?

Summary of Use during Lactation
If cyclobenzaprine is required by the mother, it is not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding. Monitor the infant for (drowsiness, adequate weight gain, and developmental milestones), especially in neonates and preterm infants and when using combinations of sedating drugs.

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.

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 muscle relaxant is safe in lactation?

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.