The UK regulator MHRA has tightened its advice on domperidone. They now recommend it mainly for treating nausea and vomiting, with the lowest effective dose for the shortest time. If you take domperidone or are considering it, this affects how your doctor or pharmacist will prescribe it.
Previously, domperidone was used for a few more conditions and sometimes off-label. The MHRA update narrows that use because of concerns about heart-related risks, especially for people with heart or liver issues. The guidance stresses minimal doses and extra caution for anyone with existing cardiac or liver problems. That means fewer prescriptions for non-essential uses and clearer warnings on packaging.
Why care about this? Because safer, more focused use reduces the chance of serious side effects. If you were taking domperidone regularly or getting it for reasons other than nausea, your prescriber may now review whether it’s still necessary.
First, check your medication list. Do you have domperidone at home? Look at the label and the leaflet for updated warnings. If you’re unsure, call your pharmacist — they can confirm whether your dose or reason for taking it matches current guidance.
Second, talk to your doctor if you have heart or liver disease, or if you take other medicines that affect the heart. Ask whether domperidone is still the best option and whether a lower dose or shorter course would work. If you’re being treated for something else with domperidone, ask about alternative treatments.
Third, watch for symptoms that need quick attention: new chest pain, fainting, sudden dizziness or palpitations. If you notice these after starting or changing a dose, seek medical advice right away.
Finally, report any worrying side effects. In the UK, the Yellow Card scheme is one way to do that; in other countries, contact your local health authority or speak with your medical team. Reporting helps regulators track risks and keeps guidance accurate.
We’ll keep this category updated with practical health alerts like this one. Want a quick summary of new drug advisories? Check back here — we’ll post short, clear notes that tell you what changed, who’s affected, and what action to take.
In a sweeping safety revision, the MHRA has updated the guidelines on domperidone usage, limiting its recommendation to treating nausea and vomiting. The update emphasizes minimal effective dosages and advisories for patients with heart or liver conditions, aiming to mitigate heart-related risks.