Recent findings from the European Medicines Agency have led to a pivotal update in the usage guidelines for the heartburn drug Motilium, also known as domperidone, by the UK's MHRA. The drug now faces restrictions due to links with cardiac complications and fatalities, particularly when misused for non-recommended conditions like heartburn or bloating.
Motilium (domperidone): what it does and when people use it
Heard of Motilium? It's a brand name for domperidone, a drug people use to ease nausea, speed up stomach emptying, and help some reflux symptoms. It can be helpful when plain antacids or diet changes don’t do the job. Still, it's not a one-size-fits-all fix — and it carries specific safety concerns you should know before taking it.
How Motilium works and common uses
Domperidone works by blocking dopamine receptors in the gut and at certain brain centers that trigger nausea. That action helps the stomach move food faster and reduces feelings of sickness. Doctors commonly prescribe it for chemotherapy-induced nausea, gastroparesis (slow stomach emptying), and some cases of reflux where other treatments aren't enough.
Typical adult dosing you’ll see in guidance is often 10 mg taken up to three times a day before meals, but dosing varies by condition and country. Always follow a prescriber’s instructions rather than self-adjusting the dose.
Safety, side effects, and buying tips
Most people only notice mild side effects like dry mouth, stomach cramps, or mild headache. The main concern is a possible effect on the heart — domperidone can prolong the QT interval in some people, which raises the risk of dangerous arrhythmias. That risk is higher in older patients, people with existing heart disease, or those taking other drugs that affect the QT interval.
Domperidone is metabolized by CYP3A4. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin, or certain HIV drugs can raise domperidone levels and increase cardiac risk. Tell your prescriber about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you use.
Regulatory notes: domperidone's availability differs worldwide. Some countries limit its use or require special monitoring because of the heart concerns. In the U.S., for example, it isn’t approved for routine domestic use; in other places it’s prescription-only.
If you’re thinking of buying Motilium online, be careful. Look for pharmacies that require a prescription, show clear contact details, use secure checkout, and have verified reviews. Avoid sites selling prescription drugs without a prescription — those are risky and may sell counterfeit or unsafe products.
Alternatives to consider with your doctor: metoclopramide (works differently but has its own risks like movement disorders), prokinetic lifestyle changes (smaller meals, avoid lying down after eating), and targeted reflux treatments such as PPIs when acid control is needed.
Before you take Motilium, ask your prescriber for a clear reason, expected benefits, how long to use it, and what tests or monitoring might be needed. If you want help checking online info or finding reliable pharmacies, our site has practical guides to evaluate health content and shop safely for meds.
Got symptoms that keep coming back? Talk to a clinician — safe treatment starts with the right diagnosis, not just a pill.