Domperidone

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. 

Improve breast milk production 

Domperidone raises the hormone prolactin, which is involved in breast milk production. Hence, salt helps in enhancing the breast milk supply. 

How does Domperidone work

Domperidone is a stimulant. It facilitates the passage of food through the digestive tract.

It impacts the brain area 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 tablets 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

Although Domperidone is a safe medication, it can show undesired effects if not used as recommended. The Domperidone side effects include 

• Skin rash
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Difficulty in breathing
• Disrupted menstrual cycle
• Breast pain and tenderness
• 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 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

Pros	Cons
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.

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. Domperidone's common side effects include difficulty 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. You should 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.