Oct 23, 2025 - Important Service Update – Please read more

Domperidone (Motilium)

What is Domperidone prescribed for?

Domperidone (brand name is motilium) is prescribed to treat nausea. It is also prescribed to treat stomach pain for people who are receiving end-of-life care. In some countries, doctors prescribe it to breastfeeding mothers to increase milk supply when other measures haven't worked. It is available by prescription only for individuals 12 years of age or older.

Domperidone (Motilium) Information

How to use Domperidone?

Domperidone is a medication that can help with nausea and vomiting. It is important to talk to a healthcare professional before taking it to make sure it is right for you.
Domperidone comes in different forms, such as tablets, suspensions, or suppositories. The dosage and how often you take it will depend on the condition you are treating. Always follow the instructions on the medication label or from your healthcare professional.

Domperidone is usually taken before meals and, if needed, before bedtime. This is because it helps to relieve symptoms related to digestion, such as bloating and discomfort, that may occur after eating.

Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablets unless advised by your healthcare professional.

Like any medication, domperidone may cause side effects. Common side effects include dry mouth, headache, dizziness, and gastrointestinal disturbances. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare professional.
Domperidone may not be suitable for everyone. Inform your healthcare professional if you have any pre-existing medical conditions such as liver or kidney problems. It is contraindicated in individuals with a history of heart problems or certain gastrointestinal disorders. It is essential to disclose your complete medical history to your healthcare professional.

Take this as many times daily as recommended by your doctor. It can vary based on your symptoms and condition. If you miss a dose you can take it when you remember. Do not take double doses to make up for one that is missed. Taking this more often than recommended can increase your risk of side effects.

Remember, this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional or pharmacist for personalised guidance on using any medication.

Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or intend to be pregnant. This can harm and unborn child or pass to breast milk.

Common Side effects of Domperidone?

Few known side effects of Domperidone Tabs. Please note that this is not a complete list of all possible side effects.

  • loss of libido in men
  • anxiety
  • somnolence
  • headache
  • diarrhoea
  • rash
  • pruritus
  • galactorrhea
  • breast pain/tenderness
  • agitation
  • nervousness
  • rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • urinary tract infection

Please inform your doctor about any side effects you experience. If you find these side effects difficult to manage, contact your doctor for medical advice.

Domperidone drug interactions

The list provided below includes drugs that are recognized to interact with Domperidone. However, it is important to note that this is not an exhaustive compilation of all potential drug interactions.

  • antiarrhythmic drugs such as disopyramide, quinidine
  • Amiodarone
  • Dronedarone and sotalol
  • some antipsychotics such as haloperidol, pimozide and sertindole
  • some anti-depressants such as citalopram and escitalopram
  • some antibiotics such as erythromycin, levofloxacin, azithromycin, clarithromycin and moxifloxacin
  • prucalopride
  • diltiazem
  • verapamil
  • mequitazine

Disclose all of your current medications, including prescription medications and OTC products, to your doctor. They will assess the potential interaction and determine whether it is beneficial to use both drugs together. If not, adjustments need to be made to your treatment plan.

Recommended dosage of Domperidone?

For adults, the typical starting dose is 10 milligrams (mg) taken three to four times a day. However, the maximum daily dose for adults should not exceed 30 mg.

It's important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional or the guidelines on the medication label.

Domperidone cost in Canada?

Starting price of Domperidone 10mg in Canada

- 100 tabs - $34.55 USD ($0.35 per tab)
- 200 tabs - $54.50 USD ($0.27 per tab)
- 300 tabs - $65.00 USD ($0.22 per tab)

Scroll up to see the specific pricing for each product, which is available in various strengths for both brand-name and generic options.

Domperidone (Motilium) FAQs

How long does Domperidone take to work?

Domperidone usually starts working within 30 to 60 minutes. It helps with nausea, vomiting, bloating, and reflux. If you're taking it for digestion, it works best before meals. Some people may need a few days to feel the full effect. If you don’t see improvement in a week, talk to your doctor.

How effective is Domperidone for nausea?

Domperidone is quite effective for nausea, especially when caused by slow stomach emptying, acid reflux, or certain medications. It works by speeding up digestion and blocking nausea signals in the brain. Many people feel better within 30 to 60 minutes of taking it. However, its effectiveness may vary depending on the cause of nausea. If symptoms don’t improve, consult your doctor for other options.

Can Domperidone cause drowsiness?

Domperidone does not usually cause drowsiness because it does not easily cross into the brain. However, some people may still feel tired or dizzy as a side effect. If this happens, avoid driving or using heavy machinery. If drowsiness persists, consult your doctor.

Is Domperidone safe for long-term use?

Domperidone is not recommended for long-term use due to potential side effects, especially on the heart. Long-term use may increase the risk of irregular heart rhythms (QT prolongation), especially in older adults or those with heart conditions. Doctors usually prescribe it for the shortest time possible at the lowest effective dose. If you need it for a long time, discuss the risks and alternatives with your doctor.

Is Domperidone safe for children?

Domperidone can be used for children, but only under a doctor's supervision. It is usually prescribed for nausea, vomiting, or digestive issues. However, due to the risk of heart-related side effects, it should be given at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest duration possible. Always follow your doctor’s advice before giving Domperidone to a child.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is intended as supplementary information to that provided by your doctor. The guidance provided by your doctor supersedes any information provided on the website. Do not avoid or disregard any counseling from your licensed medical professional based on this information. If you have any medical questions that are not answered here, we do offer counseling from a licensed pharmacist.