Domperidone: Uses, Risks, and What You Need to Know Before Taking It
When you're stuck with constant nausea or vomiting, domperidone, a medication used to treat nausea, vomiting, and stomach emptying issues. Also known as Motilium, it works by blocking dopamine in the gut to speed up digestion and calm the brain's vomiting center. But unlike many other anti-nausea drugs, domperidone doesn’t cross the blood-brain barrier easily—which is why it’s often chosen for people who can’t tolerate sedating options. Still, it’s not a free pass. It carries real risks, especially for the heart, and isn’t approved for over-the-counter use in the U.S.
One of the biggest concerns with domperidone, a dopamine antagonist used primarily for gastrointestinal motility is its link to QT prolongation, a heart rhythm disturbance that can lead to dangerous arrhythmias. This isn’t theoretical—studies and case reports show higher risk in people over 60, those taking high doses, or those already on other drugs that affect heart rhythm, like certain antibiotics or antidepressants. If you’re on domperidone, your doctor should check your heart health first, especially if you have a history of irregular heartbeat, low potassium, or kidney problems. It’s not just about feeling better—it’s about staying safe.
Domperidone is often used for gastroparesis, a condition where the stomach empties too slowly, causing bloating, nausea, and early fullness, especially when other treatments fail. It’s also used off-label for breastfeeding mothers to boost milk supply, though this use is controversial and not officially approved in many countries. The dose matters: 10 mg three to four times a day is common, but going higher without medical supervision increases risk without adding benefit. And while some online pharmacies sell it without a prescription, buying it that way puts you at risk of counterfeit pills or wrong dosing—something we’ve seen in counterfeit medication cases that led to hospitalizations.
If you’ve been prescribed domperidone, keep track of how you feel. Watch for dizziness, palpitations, or fainting—signs your heart might be reacting. Talk to your doctor if you’re also taking painkillers like NSAIDs, antibiotics like clarithromycin, or even certain antifungals. These can stack up and raise your risk. And if you’re using it for nausea from chemotherapy, pregnancy, or migraines, there are often safer, better-studied options. Domperidone isn’t the first-line choice for a reason.
Below, you’ll find real patient experiences and medical breakdowns on how domperidone fits into broader medication safety, from heart risks to drug interactions. We’ll show you how to spot warning signs, what alternatives actually work, and how to talk to your doctor about whether this drug is right for your body—not just your symptoms.
