Is Citrucel Ok During Pregnancy? Understanding the Safety and Risks

November 28, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), constipation is a common complaint for pregnant people due to hormonal changes and pressure from the growing uterus. While many over-the-counter options exist, the question of "is Citrucel ok during pregnancy?" requires a careful look at its active ingredients and medical guidance.

Quick Summary

Citrucel, a bulk-forming fiber supplement containing methylcellulose, is generally considered safe for occasional use during pregnancy due to minimal absorption. However, consulting a healthcare provider is essential before use to confirm it's the right choice.

Key Points

Consult a Doctor First: While generally considered safe, always get approval from your healthcare provider before taking Citrucel during pregnancy.
Limited Absorption: The active ingredient in Citrucel, methylcellulose, is not absorbed into the bloodstream, posing minimal risk to the fetus.
Relief for Constipation: As a bulk-forming fiber, Citrucel helps regulate bowel movements by adding bulk and holding water in the stool.
Prefer Natural Options First: Start with increased fluid intake, high-fiber foods, and regular exercise to address constipation before using supplements.
Watch for Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects like bloating or gas and seek immediate medical attention for severe abdominal pain or rectal bleeding.
Ensure Adequate Fluids: Always take Citrucel with a full glass of water to prevent a choking hazard as the fiber swells.

Understanding Citrucel and Its Active Ingredient

Citrucel is a brand of fiber supplement primarily used to treat occasional constipation and help maintain bowel regularity. Its active ingredient is methylcellulose, a type of soluble, non-fermentable fiber. Unlike some other fiber supplements like psyllium, methylcellulose is less likely to produce gas and bloating, making it a potentially more comfortable option for some people.

The Mechanism of Methylcellulose

Methylcellulose works by absorbing water in the gastrointestinal tract to form a gel-like substance. This adds bulk to the stool, which helps to stimulate bowel movements naturally. Because methylcellulose is not absorbed into the bloodstream, its effects are localized to the digestive system. This limited systemic absorption is a key reason why it is often considered a safer option for pregnant individuals compared to other types of laxatives.

Why Constipation Is Common in Pregnancy

During pregnancy, hormonal changes, particularly the increase in progesterone, can slow down the digestive system. This, combined with the pressure that the growing uterus puts on the intestines, can lead to frequent constipation. While increasing dietary fiber through foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is the first line of defense, sometimes a supplement may be necessary. This is where Citrucel or similar bulk-forming agents can be considered, but only under a doctor's supervision.

Medical Consensus on Citrucel During Pregnancy

Major health organizations, including the Cleveland Clinic, often include methylcellulose (Citrucel) on lists of medications generally considered safe for occasional use during pregnancy. The rationale behind this recommendation is the non-systemic nature of the supplement; it doesn't get absorbed into the body and therefore poses minimal risk to the fetus. However, this safety profile is always caveated with the crucial advice to consult a healthcare provider first.

Considerations and Precautions

Before using any over-the-counter medication or supplement, a pregnant person must speak with their obstetrician or healthcare provider. Here are some of the key reasons why this is necessary:

Existing Health Conditions: Conditions like bowel obstruction, appendicitis, or difficulty swallowing are contraindications for taking Citrucel. A doctor must rule these out first.
Proper Dosage: A healthcare provider can recommend the appropriate dosage, which should not be exceeded. Inadequate fluid intake with Citrucel can cause it to swell and potentially block the throat or esophagus, a serious choking hazard.
Interactions: Although methylcellulose has no known significant drug interactions, it can affect the absorption of other medications. It is recommended to take other medications one to four hours before or after taking Citrucel.

Comparison of Common Pregnancy Constipation Remedies


Remedy	Mechanism	Pregnancy Safety	Best Use Case
Dietary Fiber	Natural bulk-forming from food sources.	Generally safe and recommended.	First-line treatment for prevention and mild cases.
Citrucel (Methylcellulose)	Bulk-forming agent, not systemically absorbed.	Generally considered safe for occasional use after consulting a doctor.	When lifestyle changes aren't enough; less gas/bloating than psyllium.
Metamucil (Psyllium)	Bulk-forming agent, swells with water.	Considered safe for occasional use after consulting a doctor.	When lifestyle changes aren't enough; may cause more gas.
Colace (Docusate Sodium)	Stool softener, increases water content in stool.	Generally considered safe for occasional use.	Short-term relief for hardened stool.
Milk of Magnesia	Saline laxative, draws water into the colon.	Considered safe for occasional use.	Can cause electrolyte imbalances with prolonged use.
Senna	Stimulant laxative, promotes bowel contractions.	Not a first-line treatment; try other laxatives first.	Should only be used under strict medical supervision and when other options fail.

Lifestyle and Alternative Management

Before turning to supplements, many healthcare providers recommend trying dietary and lifestyle adjustments first. These natural remedies can effectively manage constipation for many pregnant people.

Key Lifestyle Adjustments

Increase Fluid Intake: Drinking plenty of water is crucial, as fiber works by absorbing fluids. Dehydration can exacerbate constipation.
Incorporate Fiber-Rich Foods: Add fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains to your diet. Prunes and prune juice are also known for their natural laxative effects.
Stay Active: Regular, gentle exercise like walking or prenatal yoga can help stimulate bowel movements.
Improve Posture: Using a footstool while on the toilet can help align the pelvic floor and make elimination easier.

Potential Risks and What to Watch For

While Citrucel is generally well-tolerated, it is not without potential side effects. These are typically mild but include flatulence and bloating. More serious, albeit rare, side effects can include excessive bowel activity or impaction. It is essential to monitor for any adverse reactions.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms while taking Citrucel or any other constipation remedy:

Severe abdominal pain.
Rectal bleeding.
Nausea or vomiting.
Difficulty swallowing or breathing after taking the supplement.

Conclusion

In summary, Citrucel, which contains methylcellulose, is generally considered a safe option for occasional use during pregnancy to relieve constipation because its active ingredient is not absorbed systemically. However, it is paramount to consult a healthcare provider before use to ensure it is appropriate for your specific health situation. Natural remedies, including increasing fluid intake and dietary fiber, should always be the first line of treatment. If those measures are insufficient, Citrucel offers a safe alternative under medical guidance.

For more information on safe medication use during pregnancy, visit the resource provided by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) at pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8958874/.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, methylcellulose is a bulk-forming fiber that is not absorbed into the bloodstream, meaning it does not reach the fetus. Its effects are localized to the digestive system, which is why it is generally considered safe for occasional use.

You should follow the directions on the package and consult your doctor for personalized advice. Always take Citrucel with adequate fluid, such as a full glass of water, to ensure it doesn't swell in your throat.

You should discuss this with your doctor, as fiber supplements can affect the absorption of other medications or supplements. It is generally recommended to separate the timing by at least one to four hours.

The most common side effects are mild and include flatulence (gas) and bloating. Ensuring adequate fluid intake can help minimize these effects.

Both are bulk-forming, but Citrucel's methylcellulose is non-fermentable, which means it may cause less gas and bloating compared to Metamucil, which contains psyllium. Your doctor can help determine the best option for you.

Before turning to supplements, you can increase your intake of fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Drinking plenty of water and engaging in gentle exercise like walking can also help.

Citrucel is intended for occasional use. If constipation persists for more than seven days, it is important to consult your healthcare provider to rule out a more serious condition and discuss long-term management strategies.