Domperidone — what it does and when people use it
Domperidone is a medicine many doctors use to treat nausea, vomiting and slow stomach emptying (gastroparesis). It helps food move through the gut faster and can ease bloating, early fullness and reflux symptoms. Some people also use it off-label to boost breast milk supply, but that should only happen under medical supervision.
The drug is available in tablets and as an oral suspension in some countries. Rules vary: in some places you need a prescription, and in others it’s restricted because of heart risks. Always check local guidance and talk with a clinician before starting it.
How to take domperidone
Typical adult dosing is 10 mg taken up to three times a day, usually 15–30 minutes before meals. Don’t exceed the recommended dose on the label or your doctor’s advice. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it’s close to your next dose — don’t double up.
For older adults or people with liver problems, doctors may lower the dose. Use short courses when possible and review benefits vs risks regularly with your prescriber.
Side effects, interactions and safety checks
Most people tolerate domperidone fine, but common side effects include dry mouth, abdominal cramps, diarrhea and headache. Because domperidone can affect the heart’s rhythm (QT prolongation), it carries a small risk of serious irregular heartbeat, especially at higher doses or with other risky drugs.
Avoid domperidone if you already have a long QT interval, low potassium or magnesium, or a significant heart condition. Don’t combine it with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors like ketoconazole, itraconazole, some macrolide antibiotics (for example erythromycin), or certain antivirals — these raise domperidone levels and increase heart risk. Also check interactions with some antipsychotics and antidepressants. Your doctor may request an ECG before starting the drug if you have cardiac risk factors.
When domperidone is used for lactation support, doctors weigh the benefit against potential heart risks. If a baby is exposed (through breast milk), clinicians monitor closely. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should discuss alternatives and safety with their healthcare provider.
Practical tips: keep a list of all meds and share it with your provider, report any dizziness, fainting, or fast/irregular heartbeat right away, and stop the drug if you notice severe side effects. Reassess need after a short trial — if symptoms don’t improve, don’t continue without follow-up.
If you’re unsure whether domperidone is right for you, ask your doctor these simple questions: What is the expected benefit? How long should I take it? Are there safer alternatives for my situation? That quick conversation helps avoid surprises and keeps treatment focused and safe.
