Motilium (Domperidone)

Prescription Required
Generic
Dose Size & Price Qty
10mg
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Fact Table

Fact Table
Formula C22H24ClN5O2
License EMA approved; not FDA approved (restricted access in some countries)
Bioavailability ~13–17% (oral; significant first-pass metabolism)
Legal status Prescription only (Rx)
Chemical Name 5-chloro-1-{1-[3-(2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-benzimidazol-1-yl)propyl]piperidin-4-yl}-1,3-dihydro-2H-benzimidazol-2-one
Elimination half-life ~7–9 hours
Dosage (Strength) 10 mg oral tablets (typically 10 mg up to three times daily)
Pregnancy Category C – Use only if benefit outweighs risk
Brands Motilium®
Protein binding ~91–93%
PubChem CID 3151
MedlinePlus Not available (not FDA approved in the US)
ChEBI 3151
ATC code A03FA03
DrugBank DB01184
KEGG D00412
Routes of administration By mouth (oral tablets); rectal (suppositories, limited markets)

Motilium is a prescription GERD treatment medication used to treat gastrointestinal reflux disorder or for dyspepsia treatment. Motilium uses also include treating gastroparesis. It is a dopamine agonist drug that works as an antiemetic and prokinetic medicine that blocks the action of brain neurochemicals that cause nausea and vomiting. It also increases contractions of the stomach and intestines so that food is moved more easily as it is digested, and the severity of GERD symptoms is reduced.

Directions

Standard dosage guidelines for Motilium medication are to take 1 tablet 3x a day.

Take medication 15 to 30 minutes before meals.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Motilium is Domperidone.

Cautions

Let your doctor know of any history of liver or kidney disease, pituitary gland tumor (prolactinoma), heart problems, gastrointestinal blockages, or lactose intolerance before starting on Motilium.

Patients taking certain fungal infection antibiotics, HIV treatment medications, or Hepatitis C medications may not be able to take Motilium.

Motilium is not suitable for use by children.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should only use Motilium if their doctor approves it.

Keep the medication in a cool, dry place and be aware of the expiry date.

Interactions

Negative drug interactions may occur between Motilium and other Rx medications, including ketoconazole / fluconazole / voriconazole / erythromycin / clarithromycin / telithromycin / moxifloxacin / pentamidine / amiodarone / dronedarone / quinidine / disopyramide / dofetilide / sotalol / diltiazem / verapamil / haloperidol / pimozide / sertindole / citalopram / escitalopram / cisapride / dolasetron, prucalopride / mequitazine / mizolastine / halofantrine / toremifene / vandetanib / vincamine.

Let your doctor know of all medications you are currently taking before getting a prescription and proceeding to buy Motilium online.

Side Effects

Side effects from using Motilium may occur, and some users may experience diarrhea, constipation, nausea, heartburn, appetite changes, drowsiness, or headache. If side effects are experienced, you may want to stop use and meet with a doctor again to discuss GERD treatment medication alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions about Motilium (Domperidone)


What is Motilium (Domperidone) used for?

Motilium is a medication primarily used to relieve nausea and vomiting, and it may also help with bloating, fullness, and discomfort caused by delayed gastric emptying (gastroparesis). In some cases, it’s prescribed to increase milk production in breastfeeding mothers, although this use is off-label in many countries.


How does Domperidone work in the body?

Domperidone works by blocking dopamine receptors in the gut and brain, which helps speed up the movement of food through the stomach and reduces feelings of nausea. Unlike some other medications, it does not easily cross the blood-brain barrier, which lowers the risk of central nervous system side effects.


Is Motilium available over the counter?

In many countries, Motilium is a prescription-only medication due to potential cardiac risks, especially at higher doses or with prolonged use. However, in some regions, low-dose forms may be available without a prescription for short-term relief of nausea and vomiting.


What are the common side effects of Domperidone?

Common side effects include dry mouth, headache, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. Some people may also experience drowsiness or restlessness. Serious side effects, though rare, can include irregular heartbeat or QT prolongation, especially in older adults or those with heart conditions.


Can Domperidone be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Domperidone is not typically recommended during pregnancy unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. It is sometimes used off-label to stimulate breast milk production, but this use should only be under medical supervision due to possible side effects and heart-related risks.


How should Motilium be taken for best results?

Motilium is usually taken 15 to 30 minutes before meals and, if necessary, before bedtime. It is important to follow the dosing instructions exactly and avoid taking more than the prescribed amount, as higher doses increase the risk of heart-related side effects.


Who should avoid taking Domperidone?

Domperidone should be avoided in people with known heart conditions such as prolonged QT interval, liver disease, or those taking medications that can affect heart rhythm. It’s also not recommended for children under 12 years of age unless specifically prescribed.


Can Domperidone interact with other medications?

Yes, Domperidone can interact with several medications, particularly those that prolong the QT interval (like some antibiotics, antifungals, and antidepressants) or those that inhibit liver enzymes (such as ketoconazole or erythromycin), which can increase domperidone levels and raise the risk of side effects.


How quickly does Motilium start working?

Domperidone usually begins to work within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it. Its effects on nausea and gastric motility can be felt relatively quickly, which is why it is often used before meals to manage symptoms.


Is long-term use of Domperidone safe?

Long-term use of Domperidone is generally not recommended due to the potential for serious heart-related side effects, especially in higher doses. It is typically prescribed for short-term relief, and ongoing treatment should be regularly reviewed by a healthcare provider.

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