Which muscle relaxant is safe during breastfeeding?

Safe Muscle Relaxants During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face challenges related to muscle tension and discomfort, leading some to consider muscle relaxants for relief. However, the safety of medications during lactation is a paramount concern for new mothers. Here’s a detailed overview of muscle relaxants that are generally considered safe during breastfeeding.
Understanding Muscle Relaxants
Muscle relaxants are classified into two main categories: centrally acting muscle relaxants and peripherally acting muscle relaxants. Centrally acting agents work on the central nervous system to relieve muscle spasms, while peripherally acting agents block nerve impulses to the muscles. The choice of muscle relaxant is crucial, as some medications can pass into breast milk and potentially affect the nursing infant.
Safe Options
Based on current research and guidelines, the following muscle relaxants are often deemed safe for use during breastfeeding:
1. Cyclobenzaprine: This centrally acting muscle relaxant is commonly prescribed for muscle spasms. Studies indicate that it is excreted in breast milk in small amounts, but adverse effects in breastfed infants have not been documented. It is generally regarded as safe when used in moderation.
2. Methocarbamol: This medication is another central muscle relaxant that is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Its low potency and minimal side effects make it a preferred option. Methocarbamol is excreted into breast milk, but the amount is usually low enough to pose minimal risk to the infant.
3. Baclofen: While baclofen is effective for treating muscle spasticity, it should be used cautiously. It is excreted in breast milk; however, the levels are low, and it is usually considered safe. Monitoring for any unusual symptoms in the infant is advisable.
Caution Advised
While certain muscle relaxants may be safe, it is essential for breastfeeding mothers to consult healthcare providers before starting any medication. Individual responses may vary, and factors such as the mother’s overall health, dosage, and duration of use play a critical role in determining safety.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cyclobenzaprine, methocarbamol, and baclofen are muscle relaxants that have been found to be relatively safe for breastfeeding mothers. However, it is crucial to prioritize open communication with healthcare professionals to ensure the health and safety of both mother and child. As always, careful consideration and professional guidance are key elements in managing health while 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.

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.

What muscle relaxer can I take while 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 drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?

Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.

Drug	Comment
Antineoplastics	Leukopenia, bone marrow suppression
Gold salts	Rash, nephritis, haematological abnormalities
Iodine	High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism
Lithium	Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring

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.

What medications are not compatible with 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.

What muscle relaxer can I take while pregnant?

Rocuronium. Rocuronium is currently the most commonly used skeletal muscle relaxant during pregnancy and puerperium period.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

The only true contraindications to breastfeeding are the following: Infants with classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency) Mothers, in the US, who are infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), untreated brucellosis, or suspected or confirmed Ebola virus disease.

What anti-inflammatory is safe while breastfeeding?

There is very limited published information on the use of NSAIDs during breastfeeding; however ibuprofen and diclofenac are the preferred choices due to their shorter half-lives and extensive use during breastfeeding in clinical practice.

What can I take for back spasms while breastfeeding?

If greater pain relief is required, tramadol, Oramorph or dihydrocodeine are all breastfeeding compatible options. Tramadol reaches low levels in babies but can make mum very sleepy. Watch the baby for signs of drowsiness too.