Some people with cancer use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to ease stress or to reduce side effects and symptoms:

• An approach is generally called complementary medicine when it is used along with standard treatment.
• An approach is called alternative medicine when it is used instead of standard treatment.

Acupuncture, massage therapy, herbal products, vitamins or special diets, visualization, meditation, and spiritual healing are types of CAM. Many people say that such approaches help them feel better.

However, some types of CAM may interfere with standard treatment. Combining CAM with standard treatment may even be harmful. Before trying any type of CAM, you should discuss its possible benefits and risks with your doctor.

Some types of CAM are expensive. Health insurance may not cover the cost.

The NCI offers a fact sheet called "Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Cancer Treatment: Questions and Answers."

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