Domperidone Side Effects: What You Need to Know Before Taking It

When you take domperidone, a medication used to treat nausea, vomiting, and stomach emptying issues. Also known as Motilium, it works by blocking dopamine in the gut to speed up digestion. But it’s not harmless—side effects can be serious, especially if you’re unaware of the risks. Unlike many other anti-nausea drugs, domperidone doesn’t cross the blood-brain barrier easily, which sounds good—until you realize its real dangers lie elsewhere.

One of the biggest concerns with domperidone, a dopamine receptor antagonist. Also known as Motilium, it is used to treat nausea and gastric motility disorders is its impact on heart rhythm. Studies show it can cause a rare but dangerous heart rhythm problem called QT prolongation, which may lead to irregular heartbeat or even sudden cardiac arrest. This isn’t just a theoretical risk—it’s been documented in real patients, especially those taking higher doses or using it for long periods. People with existing heart conditions, liver problems, or those on other medications that affect the heart are at higher risk. The FDA doesn’t approve domperidone for use in the U.S. for this very reason, and many European health agencies have strict limits on how long you can take it.

Common side effects are less scary but still worth noting: dry mouth, headaches, stomach cramps, and dizziness. Less common but still reported are breast tenderness, milk production in non-pregnant people (yes, even men), and changes in menstrual cycles. These aren’t just side effects—they’re signs your body is reacting to the drug’s hormonal interference. Domperidone affects prolactin, a hormone tied to milk production and reproductive function. If you notice unusual breast changes or a drop in libido, that’s not normal—it’s the drug at work.

It’s also important to know who shouldn’t take it. People with liver disease, those on certain antibiotics or antifungals, or anyone with a history of heart arrhythmias should avoid it entirely. Even over-the-counter versions sold online can be dangerous because dosing isn’t regulated. You can’t trust a website that says "safe for long-term use"—real medical guidelines say otherwise.

There are safer alternatives. For nausea, ondansetron or metoclopramide (with caution) are often preferred. For slow stomach emptying, dietary changes, smaller meals, and prokinetic drugs like erythromycin might be better options. You don’t need domperidone to feel better—you just need the right information.

Below, you’ll find real patient experiences, doctor-recommended alternatives, and clear comparisons with other treatments. No fluff. No marketing. Just what you need to decide if domperidone is worth the risk—or if there’s a safer way forward.