Domperidone – What It Is and How It Works

If you’ve ever felt nauseated after a meal or struggled with slow stomach emptying, you may have heard of domperidone. It’s a medication that helps your gut move food faster and reduces the feeling of nausea. Unlike some other drugs, it works mainly on the receptors in your gut rather than the brain, so it doesn’t usually cause drowsiness.

Domperidone blocks dopamine receptors in the stomach lining, which lifts the muscle tone that can hold food back. The result is smoother digestion and fewer bouts of nausea or vomiting. Doctors often prescribe it for conditions like gastroparesis, acid reflux, or medication‑induced nausea.

Dosage & How to Take It

The typical adult dose is 10 mg taken up to three times a day, but your doctor might adjust it based on age, weight and the specific condition you’re treating. Always swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water; crushing or chewing can affect how the drug works.

Take domperidone about 15–30 minutes before meals if you’re using it for nausea, or as directed by your prescriber for other gut issues. Consistency matters—try to take it at the same times each day so blood levels stay steady.

Side Effects & When to Call a Doctor

Most people tolerate domperidone well, but some experience mild side effects such as dry mouth, headache or abdominal cramps. These usually fade after a few days.

A more serious concern is heart‑related trouble, especially if you take high doses or have existing cardiac conditions. Watch for rapid heartbeat, palpitations or chest pain and seek medical help right away.

Other red flags include severe dizziness, muscle tremors or any allergic reaction like rash or swelling. If any of these happen, stop the medication and contact your healthcare provider.

Never combine domperidone with certain medications that affect heart rhythm, such as some antibiotics or antifungals, unless your doctor says it’s safe. Also, avoid alcohol while on this drug because it can increase side effects.

Remember, domperidone is not a cure‑all for stomach problems. It works best when paired with lifestyle changes like smaller meals, staying hydrated and avoiding trigger foods that worsen reflux or slow digestion.

If you’re unsure whether domperidone is right for you, schedule a quick chat with your pharmacist or doctor. They can review your medical history, other meds you take, and help set the right dose.

In short, domperidone can be a handy tool to tame nausea and speed up stomach emptying when used correctly. Stick to the prescribed amount, watch for warning signs, and keep an open line with your healthcare team—you’ll get the most benefit while staying safe.