Pregnant women are often faced with many difficult decisions when it comes to managing their health and wellness throughout the course of their pregnancy. One of the most common questions that arise for pregnant women is whether or not muscle relaxers can be used in order to alleviate the physical discomfort caused by pregnancy. This is a complex question which requires careful consideration of the potential risks and benefits of using muscle relaxers during pregnancy. In this blog post, we will discuss the potential risks and benefits of using muscle relaxers while pregnant, as well as the potential side effects that can occur if muscle relaxers are taken in this situation. We will also provide advice on when and how muscle relaxers should be taken in order to ensure the safety of the pregnant woman and her unborn baby.
Pregnancy Risk Factors and Medication Categories
The FDA classifies medication safety during pregnancy through the following categories, as explained by the American Pregnancy Association:
Mayo Clinic publishes that cyclobenzaprine is classified as a Category B. While animal studies have shown no risk to the fetus, there have been no human studies in pregnant women to demonstrate whether or not Flexeril is safe to use during pregnancy.
Since there is insufficient data or controlled studies to support a different conclusion, flexeril is technically regarded as safe throughout all three trimesters.
The Journal of Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine publishes a case wherein a baby was born in respiratory distress and experiencing pulmonary hypertension after the mother took Flexeril during pregnancy. The report indicates that the use of Flexeril in late pregnancy may lead to early ductal closure of the heart in utero.
Flexeril is believed to inhibit norepinephrine and serotonin reuptake, which in turn inhibits nitric oxide and prostaglandin, the most common causes of this condition. As a result, this is most likely what happens.
The fetus could be harmed by Flexeril use during the third trimester.
The Prescriber’s Digital Reference (PDR) reports that dosages of Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine) are not to exceed 30 mg per day. Usually, the dosage is given in 5 mg doses three times per day or in 15 mg doses once or twice a day for the extended-release formulation.
Only a brief timeframe, no longer than two to three weeks, is advised for the use of Flexeril. It is consumed as a tablet that is swallowed whole.
As with any medication, it is not without risk factors. Dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth are Flexeril side effects that are most frequently reported.
Expectant mothers may find pregnancy to be an exciting time, but just as having a child opens many new doors, pregnancy may also cause a mother-to-be to experience novel, occasionally unpleasant sensations. Back pain, more specifically back spasms, is one of the most typical complaints during pregnancy.
Behram suggests applying heat or ice to the lower back for brief periods (under 10 minutes) when you experience spasms as a way to prevent or lessen back spasms.
Even though back spasms are frequently just minor irritations, they can also be signs of other problems.
Relaxation and massage therapies can also be extremely beneficial. Patients should confirm their massage therapist’s certification in pregnancy massage and that they have the right supplies for expectant mothers, advises Behram. Back spasms can cause discomfort, but acupuncture can help.
Back spasms are sometimes mistaken for sciatica, which is pain caused by the sciatic nerve that runs through each hip and runs from the lower back to each leg. If pain radiates down one or both of your legs along with your back spasms, be sure to see a doctor.
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FAQ
What can I take for muscle pain during pregnancy?
Are relaxers safe during pregnancy?
These treatments are likely to be safe to use while you are pregnant. One study showed that using hair-straightening products won’t increase your risk of premature birth or having a low-birth-weight baby. However, the study didn’t look into birth defects.
What can you take to relax you while pregnant?
- Concentrate On Your Breathing. Stress can have a major effect on your breathing. …
- Stretch To Feel Better Fast. …
- Get Plenty Of Rest. …
- De-stress With A Massage. …
- Tense & Relax. …
- Employ Positive Self-Talk. …
- Sip On Peppermint Tea. …
- Talk To Someone Else About What’s Bothering You.
Can I use muscle relief while pregnant?