💊 Domperidone

Prokinetic & Antiemetic (Dopamine Antagonist)

Generic Name	Domperidone
Drug Class	Peripheral Dopamine (D₂) Receptor Antagonist
Indications	Nausea and vomiting Gastroparesis Functional dyspepsia Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Mechanism of Action	Blocks peripheral dopamine (D₂) receptors, enhancing gastric motility and accelerating gastric emptying. Also acts on the chemoreceptor trigger zone outside the blood–brain barrier.
Available Forms & Strengths	• Tablet: 10 mg • Oral suspension
Dosage	Adults: 10 mg 2–3 times daily (before meals) Children: 0.2–0.4 mg/kg per dose, up to 3 times daily
Route	Oral
Common Side Effects	Dry mouth Abdominal cramps Headache
Serious Adverse Effects	QT prolongation, ventricular arrhythmia, sudden cardiac death (rare, dose-related)
Contraindications	• Prolonged QT interval • Moderate to severe hepatic impairment • Concomitant QT-prolonging drugs
Precautions	• Elderly patients • Cardiac disease • Electrolyte imbalance
Drug Interactions	• Macrolide antibiotics • Azole antifungals • Other QT-prolonging drugs
Pregnancy & Lactation	Pregnancy: Use if clearly needed Lactation: Generally considered safe (increases prolactin)
Storage	Store below 30°C, protect from light
References	BNF \| BNF for Children \| Manufacturer Prescribing Information

⚠️ Clinical note: Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration due to potential cardiac risks.