The Basics
What is Flurbiprofen?
Used to relieve pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Brand names for Flurbiprofen
Ansaid
How Flurbiprofen is classified
Analgesic Agents
Flurbiprofen During Pregnancy
Flurbiprofen pregnancy category
Category CNote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Flurbiprofen while pregnant
Reproductive studies conducted in rats and rabbits have not demonstrated evidence of developmental abnormalities. However, animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. ANSAID (flurbiprofen) should be used in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Taking Flurbiprofen While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Flurbiprofen?
Because of the low levels of flurbiprofen in breastmilk and its short half-life it is unlikely to adversely affect the breastfed infant, especially if the infant is older than 2 months. Maternal use of flurbiprofen eye drops would not be expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. To substantially diminish the amount of drug that reaches the breastmilk after using eye drops, place pressure over the tear duct by the corner of the eye for 1 minute or more, then remove the excess solution with an absorbent tissue.
Maternal / infant drug levels
Because of the low levels of flurbiprofen in breastmilk and its short half-life it is unlikely to adversely affect the breastfed infant, especially if the infant is older than 2 months. Maternal use of flurbiprofen eye drops would not be expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. To substantially diminish the amount of drug that reaches the breastmilk after using eye drops, place pressure over the tear duct by the corner of the eye for 1 minute or more, then remove the excess solution with an absorbent tissue.
Possible effects of Flurbiprofen on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Flurbiprofen
(Systemic) Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen, Indomethacin, Naproxen, Piroxicam.
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/1. Cox SR, Forbes KK. Excretion of flurbiprofen into breast milk. Pharmacotherapy. 1987;7:211-5. PMID: 3444752
2. Smith IJ, Hinson JL, Johnson VA et al. Flurbiprofen in post-partum women: plasma and breast milk disposition. J Clin Pharmacol. 1989;29:174-84. PMID: 2715375
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
