Domperidone

Generic Name: Domperidone
Brand Name: Motilium

Domperidone structure
wikipedia.org

What is Domperidone

Domperidone is an anti-emetic salt that increases the movements or contractions of the stomach and bowel. 

It treats nausea and vomiting caused by delayed gastric emptying, which is the time taken for food to pass from the stomach to the small intestine.  It is also used for increasing milk production in breastfeeding mothers. 

The anti-sickness salt increases intestinal movements and facilitates the excretion of the bowel.

It is available as the generic version of Motilium. 

Domperidone Uses

Domperidone is an FDA-approved salt for treating, 

Nausea and vomiting

It is a condition of stomach discomfort and the feeling of vomiting. The discomfort has many causes and can often be treated. 

This salt is used to treat or prevent nausea and vomiting, which may be caused due to chemotherapy or digestive system disorder.

Gastric motility disorders

Domperidone may also be used for the treatment of Gastric Motility disorders where the movement of food from the stomach is prolonged, resulting in delayed emptying. 

How does Domperidone work

Domperidone is a prokinetic. It works to promote the movement of food through the digestive tract. 

It acts on the region in the brain that controls vomiting. 

It works on the upper digestive tract to increase the movement of the stomach and intestines, allowing food to move more quickly through the stomach.

The salt blocks the messages that pass between your digestive system and your brain. 

It makes you less prone to falling sick by making the muscles at the entrance of your stomach tighten, and the muscles at the exit of your stomach relax. 

Domperidone Dosage

It is recommended to have Domperidone before food. 

You should take it 15 to 30 minutes before you have a meal or snack.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions when taking Domperidone.

Take the Domperidone tablet whole with a drink of water. Do not crush or chew it.

The usual dose for adults and children of age 12 years is one 10mg tablet. 

You can take medicine containing this salt three times a day when needed. Space your doses evenly throughout the day, at least 8 hours apart.

Who can take it?

Domperidone can be taken by most adults and children aged 12 years and older.

You can avoid taking medicines containing this salt if you, 

  • have an allergic reaction to Domperidone or any other medicine
  • weigh less than 35kg
  • Suffer from Crohn’s disease
  • had abdominal surgery recently, such as a Hernia operation or Cesarean section
  • Suffer from a tumor in the pituitary gland
  • it may not be suitable for people over the age of 60

Domperidone Side effects

  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Skin rash
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Disrupted menstrual cycle
  • Breast pain and tenderness
  • Dry mouth
  • Swelling of face, lips, eyelids, tongue, hands, and feet 
  • Loss of libido
  • Diarrhea
  • Angina

Domperidone Interactions

Like other medicinal salts, Domperidone might also interact with other drugs and diseases to show side effects, 

Drug Interactions

  • Antidepressants or antipsychotic medicines
  • Antibiotics or medicines for fungal infections
  • Medicines for HIV infection
  • Medicines for malaria
  • Medications for heart disease or Hypertension 
  • Drugs for cancer, or having treatment for cancer

Disease Interactions

  • Kidney diseases
  • Liver disease
  • Gastro-intestinal disease

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Domperidone is an anti-sickness medicine. It helps you get relief from Nausea. It might not be suitable for people suffering from heart disease. 
After intake, it works within 30 to 60 minutes to show action. It is not meant for people above the age of 60. 
It is a cheaper yet effective alternative to other branded tablets. 

Storage

Store at room temperature only. Keep it away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep out of the bathroom. Keep all medications out of the reach of kids.

Other Products with Similar Salts

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Domperidone used for?

Domperidone is an antiemetic drug used to treat stomach discomfort like Nausea and Vomiting. It is sometimes used for treating delayed stomach emptying as well. It is also used for increasing the milk supply in breastfeeding mothers.

What are the side effects of Domperidone?

Domperidone is a safe medication but can show side effects in a few cases. The common side effects of Domperidone include difficulty in breathing, dizziness, disturbed menstrual cycle, Diarrhea, and Angina.

Who should not take Domperidone?

Domperidone is not safe for people over 60, who are allergic to the salt, weigh less than 35 kg, had abdominal surgery, or have a tumor in the pituitary gland.

How quickly does Domperidone work?

Domperidone should begin to act within 30 to 60 minutes. It is advised that you take Domperidone for the shortest period feasible and at the lowest effective dose.

How safe is Domperidone?

Domperidone is an FDA-approved salt to treat Nausea and Vomiting. It is generally safe for most people. However, if you have heart disease or are on other medications, you should first consult with your doctor to ensure that this medication is appropriate for you.

Is Domperidone good for acid reflux?

Yes, Domperidone is a prescribed medicine for acid reflux. It works to increase the movement of food through the stomach and intestine. Hence, it helps to reduce the burning sensation in the stomach.

Does domperidone make you sleepy?

Domperidone belongs to the group of anti-sickness medicines. It does not make you feel tired or sleepy.

Will Domperidone cause weight gain?

Yes, some people may suffer weight gain as a side effect of this medication. But, it happens in rare cases.

Does domperidone help with bloating?

Domperidone works by speeding up the passage of food through the stomach and digestive tract, reducing feelings of bloating, fullness and indigestion.

Is Domperidone a steroid?

Domperidone is not a steroid but a dopamine antagonist salt used to treat Nausea and vomiting.