Motilium (domperidone) — what it does and how to use it safely
Motilium is the brand name for domperidone, a medicine many people use for nausea, vomiting, and stomach emptying problems. It helps speed up the movement of food through the stomach and can ease bloating or feeling full quickly. If you’ve been given Motilium, knowing the benefits and the risks will help you use it right.
When doctors prescribe Motilium
Doctors usually prescribe domperidone for nausea from stomach issues, gastroparesis (slow stomach emptying), or to reduce vomiting after some medications. It can also increase gut motility so people who feel overly full after small meals sometimes get it. Typical adult dosing is 10 mg up to three times a day before meals, but your doctor may change that based on your situation.
Do not double doses if you miss one. Follow the exact dose and duration your prescriber sets — long-term use raises the chance of side effects.
Key safety points you need to know
Domperidone can cause serious heart effects in some people, including changes in the heart rhythm (QT prolongation). That risk rises if you take higher doses, have existing heart disease, low potassium, or use medicines that block CYP3A4 (for example, some antifungals and certain antibiotics). Your prescriber should check your heart history and other drugs before starting Motilium.
Other side effects include dry mouth, abdominal cramps, and sometimes increased prolactin (which can cause breast milk production or menstrual changes). It’s usually not recommended for people with severe liver disease, known heart rhythm disorders, or a prolactinoma (a prolactin-secreting tumor).
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: domperidone moves into breast milk and can raise prolactin. Some countries restrict its use in breastfeeding; discuss risks and benefits with your doctor before taking it if you’re pregnant or nursing.
If you take other medicines, check for interactions. Avoid strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (like ketoconazole, itraconazole, some macrolide antibiotics and HIV protease inhibitors) while on domperidone unless a doctor says otherwise. Grapefruit juice can also affect this pathway.
Alternatives for nausea and gastroparesis include metoclopramide, ondansetron, or lifestyle measures: smaller meals, low-fat foods, and avoiding late large dinners. Each alternative has its own risks — compare with your clinician.
Buying and using Motilium safely: in many places you need a prescription. If you shop online, use licensed pharmacies, check pharmacist contact details, and avoid sites that sell without prescriptions. Keep a list of all other meds and health conditions to share with your prescriber.
If you notice fast or irregular heartbeat, fainting, chest pain, or severe dizziness after starting Motilium, stop it and seek medical help. For routine symptoms, talk to your doctor about whether domperidone is right for you and how long you should take it.
Need help understanding a prescription or side effects? Ask your pharmacist or clinician — they can explain dose adjustments, safer alternatives, and monitoring steps tailored to your health.
