Basics

Domperidone is an active substance from the class of antiemetics (anti-nausea drugs). It is used to treat nausea and vomiting, for example during chemotherapy. Domperidone requires a prescription and is usually administered in tablet form.

Pharmacology

Pharmacodynamics

Domperidone is a so-called dopamine antagonist. It blocks the dopamine receptors D2 and D3. These are responsible for the development of nausea and vomiting and can no longer be activated as often in the presence of domperidone, resulting in a reduction of these symptoms.

Pharmacokinetics

Domperidone is absorbed into the blood via the intestine, where it is present bound to proteins by 93%. The elimination half-life is 7 hours. Degradation occurs in the liver and is catalyzed by enzymes of the CYP450 system.

Toxicity

Side effects

Side effects include an increase in prolactin levels and QT prolongation of heart rhythm, menstrual cramps, and sexual dysfunction.

Author

Markus Falkenstätter, BSc

Pharmacy student

Markus Falkenstätter is a writer on pharmaceutical topics in Medikamio's medical editorial team. He is in the last semester of his pharmacy studies at the University of Vienna and loves scientific work in the field of natural sciences.

Reviewer

Mag. pharm. Stefanie Brandauer

Pharmacist

Stefanie Lehenauer has been a freelance writer for Medikamio since 2020 and studied pharmacy at the University of Vienna. She works as a pharmacist in Vienna and her passion is herbal medicines and their effects.

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