Motilium (domperidone): what it does and when to consider alternatives

Motilium, the brand name for domperidone, is a medicine people use for nausea, vomiting and slow stomach emptying (gastroparesis). It helps food move through the stomach faster and can ease the sick-to-your-stomach feeling. Before you try it or switch to something else, there are clear safety points and real alternatives to know about.

Many readers ask: is Motilium safe? Regulators in some countries have flagged heart risks with domperidone at higher doses or in people with certain health problems. That doesn’t mean everyone must avoid it, but it does mean you should use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time and tell your doctor about other medications and any heart issues.

Quick rules to follow if you take or consider Motilium

Keep it simple: tell your prescriber about other medicines (especially those that affect heart rhythm), mention any fainting, dizziness or palpitations, and avoid high doses. If you’re buying meds online, pick a licensed pharmacy and never use products without a clear label and verified contact info. If nausea is sudden, severe, or comes with fever, severe pain, or blood, see a doctor right away.

Five practical alternatives to Motilium (short guide)

Here are alternatives you’ll see in our posts and in clinical practice. Each option has pros and cons, so talk to your clinician before switching.

Metoclopramide – A prokinetic like domperidone that speeds stomach emptying and helps nausea. It can cause movement side effects if used long-term, so it’s usually for short courses.

Ondansetron – A powerful anti-nausea drug often used for chemotherapy or severe vomiting. It works differently than Motilium and is useful when other meds fail. Watch for interactions and dosing limits.

Erythromycin – An antibiotic that, at low doses, can stimulate stomach movement. It’s helpful for gastroparesis but may lose effect over time and can interact with other drugs.

Relamorelin – A newer drug under study for gastroparesis. It may help stomach emptying and nausea, but availability and cost vary by country.

Nabilone – A synthetic cannabinoid used for severe nausea when other treatments don’t work. It can cause drowsiness and mood changes, so it’s reserved for select cases.

If cost is your concern, generic versions and talking to your pharmacist about lower-cost options often helps. Our site has posts comparing these choices in plain language and what to expect from each one.

Still unsure? Ask your provider for an ECG if there’s any heart risk, list all meds you take, and discuss short-term trials rather than long courses. Practical checks like these keep nausea under control while reducing avoidable risk.