Domperidone: What It Does, How to Use It, and What to Watch For

If you’ve ever felt queasy after a meal or struggled with slow stomach emptying, you might have heard of domperidone. It’s a prescription drug that helps your gut move food along faster and eases nausea. Doctors often pick it when other anti‑nausea pills aren’t enough because it works directly on the digestive tract instead of the brain.

Domperidone is not an over‑the‑counter product in most places, so you’ll need a prescription. The typical dose for adults starts at 10 mg taken three to four times a day before meals and at bedtime. Your doctor may adjust it based on how you feel and any other meds you’re taking. For kids, the dose is usually calculated by weight, and a pediatrician will set the exact amount.

When Is Domperidone Worth Trying?

The drug shines in three main situations: chronic nausea from conditions like gastroparesis, reflux‑related discomfort, and medication‑induced stomach upset. If you have diabetes‑related slow gastric emptying, domperidone can speed things up and reduce vomiting episodes. It’s also used off‑label for boosting milk production, though that use is controversial and should only be done under close medical supervision.

Because it works by blocking dopamine receptors in the gut, you’ll feel relief without the drowsiness that comes with many antihistamines. That makes it a good option if you need to stay alert for work or school while managing nausea.

Side Effects and Safety Checklist

Most people tolerate domperidone well, but there are some red flags to keep an eye on. The most serious risk involves heart rhythm problems, especially if you’re over 60, have a history of cardiac disease, or take other drugs that affect the QT interval (like certain antibiotics or anti‑arrhythmics). If you notice palpitations, fainting, or irregular beats, call your doctor right away.

Common milder side effects include dry mouth, headache, and mild dizziness. These usually fade after a few days. To lower risk, avoid alcohol and high‑dose caffeine while on the medication, and tell your physician about any other prescriptions, supplements, or over‑the‑counter meds you use.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should only take domperidone if the benefits clearly outweigh the risks, because safety data are limited. Always discuss family plans with your healthcare provider before starting.

Here’s a quick checklist before you fill that script:

• Do you have any heart conditions? Mention them to your doctor.
• Are you on other meds that affect heart rhythm? List them all.
• Can you commit to taking the pill before meals and at night?
• Do you know what to do if you feel a rapid heartbeat or dizziness?

Following these steps helps keep domperidone effective and safe. If you ever skip a dose, just take the next one as scheduled – don’t double up.

This tag page gathers all our articles that mention domperidone, from dosage guides to safety warnings. Browse the list below for deeper dives on specific topics like “Domperidone vs Metoclopramide” or “How Domperidone Affects Milk Production.” Each post follows the same clear, practical style you see here.

Remember, domperidone can be a real lifesaver when used correctly. Keep an open line with your pharmacist, read the label carefully, and report any unusual symptoms right away. With the right approach, you’ll get back to feeling steady after meals without the constant nausea drag.