Is it safe to take a laxative during cancer treatment?

Use only medicines and treatments for constipation that your doctor recommends. During cancer treatment, it's important not to start a laxative on your own.

Your doctor may prescribe laxatives to prevent or relieve constipation. There are several types, including osmotics (which pull water into the bowel), stool softeners (which soften stool by adding water and fat), and stimulant laxatives (which cause the intestines to contract so stool moves along). Your doctor chooses the type that is right for you, and may recommend others.

Some products can be risky. Do not use suppositories (capsules inserted into the anus) or enemas (liquid inserted into the anus) unless your doctor recommends them, because in some people with cancer they can lead to bleeding, infection, or other harmful side effects. Laxatives are also generally not used for a serious blockage called fecal impaction, since they may cause cramping and damage to the intestines.

Because the safest choice depends on your treatment and your medicines, ask your health care team before taking any laxative.