From the FDA Drug Label
Nursing Mothers It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk Because cyclobenzaprine is closely related to the tricyclic antidepressants, some of which are known to be excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride is administered to a nursing woman.
Cyclobenzaprine is not recommended for use during breastfeeding due to the uncertainty of its excretion in human milk and its relation to tricyclic antidepressants, which are known to be excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when considering the use of cyclobenzaprine in nursing women 1.
From the Research
Cyclobenzaprine is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but caution is advised due to its sedative properties and potential effects on the infant. The most recent and highest quality study on this topic, published in 2019 2, found that cyclobenzaprine concentrations in human milk were low, with a calculated relative infant dose of 0.5%. However, the study recommended regular clinical assessment of the infant to evaluate for long-term effects due to the sedative properties of the medication. When considering the use of cyclobenzaprine during breastfeeding, it is essential to weigh the benefits against the potential risks. The medication should be used at the lowest effective dose, typically 5-10 mg, for the shortest duration possible. Some key points to consider when taking cyclobenzaprine while breastfeeding include:
- Monitoring the baby for unusual sleepiness, feeding difficulties, or changes in breathing patterns
- Taking the medication right after nursing and waiting 3-4 hours before the next feeding to minimize infant exposure
- Considering alternative non-medication approaches for muscle spasms, such as physical therapy, heat therapy, or gentle stretching
- Consulting with a healthcare provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding to discuss the specific situation and potential risks. Additionally, a more recent study on the risk assessment of maternal drugs during breastfeeding, published in 2023 3, emphasizes the importance of considering the benefits of breastfeeding, the risks of untreated maternal disease, and the maternal willingness to breastfeed when making decisions about medication use during lactation. Overall, while cyclobenzaprine is considered safe during breastfeeding, caution and careful monitoring are necessary to minimize potential risks to the infant.