Domperidone Administration: Dosage, Uses, and What You Need to Know

When it comes to managing nausea, vomiting, or slow stomach emptying, Domperidone, a peripheral dopamine receptor antagonist used to treat gastrointestinal disorders. Also known as motilium, it works directly on the stomach and intestines without crossing the blood-brain barrier, making it a safer choice for many compared to drugs that affect the brain. Unlike metoclopramide, which can cause drowsiness or movement issues, domperidone targets only the digestive system—making it a go-to for people who need relief without feeling foggy or unsteady.

Domperidone administration isn’t one-size-fits-all. For adults, the standard dose is 10 mg taken up to three times a day, usually 15 to 30 minutes before meals. Some people, especially those with gastroparesis or chronic nausea, may need up to 20 mg three times daily, but only under a doctor’s supervision. It’s not meant for long-term use without monitoring, especially in older adults or those with heart conditions. The FDA hasn’t approved domperidone for use in the U.S., but it’s widely used elsewhere, including Canada, the UK, and Australia, where it’s available by prescription. People often ask why it’s not sold over the counter here—it’s because of rare but serious heart rhythm risks, especially at higher doses or when combined with other medications that affect the liver.

It’s commonly used for chemotherapy-induced nausea, post-surgery vomiting, and even breastfeeding support—some mothers take it off-label to boost milk supply, though this use isn’t officially approved everywhere. It’s also preferred over metoclopramide in patients with Parkinson’s disease, since it doesn’t worsen motor symptoms. If you’re considering domperidone, check with your doctor about your heart health, liver function, and any other meds you’re taking. Drug interactions are real—antifungals, certain antibiotics, and even grapefruit juice can raise domperidone levels in your blood and increase risk.

Below, you’ll find real comparisons and practical guides on how domperidone stacks up against other treatments, what dosages work best for different conditions, and how to spot potential side effects before they become serious. Whether you’re managing nausea after chemo, dealing with slow digestion, or exploring options for lactation support, the posts here give you the facts—not the hype.