Domperidone -More Than Just a Gut Motility Agent

Pharmacy
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1

Did you know that domperidone is being used to enhance breast milk production??

I read a case of a first time mother who was at a verge of giving up breastfeeding as there was no sufficient milk for the baby. The mother had tried everything- frequent feeding, pumping, warm compresses, herbal teas, but nothing seemed to help.
She was completely broken saying,“I feel like I’m failing as a mother.”
Then the doctors came up with domperidone.

But why?
Domperidone, widely known for nausea and gastroparesis, also increases prolactin levels by blocking dopamine, a lesser-known off-label use to stimulate breast milk production.
As she had no cardiac history or interacting medications and no other remedies helped, thought of giving it a try with a proper counselling about both risk and benefits.

Doctor started 10 mg TID for a short course, with close monitoring. Within a few days, the mother noticed a gradual increase in milk volume - and emotionally, it meant the world to her.

This case reminds that medications often have life-changing roles beyond their common use - when guided by evidence and empathy.

MBH/AB

6 Likes
2

Interesting.

3

Well expressed

4

Well explained

5

Nice topic and well explained with facts.

6

Informative

7

Informative topic, Domperidone is best known for treating nausea and slow stomach emptying, but it’s also used off-label to boost breast milk by raising prolactin levels though with potential risks like heart rhythm changes. It usually stays out of the brain thanks to protective transporters but can rarely cause movement or hormone-related side effects, especially in sensitive individuals.

8

Informative. Never heard of this use for Domperidone

9

Isn’t this drug repurposing? I would love to know more about it can you share the relevant case .

10

informative

11

This case really touched me. It shows how much emotional pain mothers go through when breastfeeding doesn’t work out. Domperidone being used like this was new to me—I only knew it for nausea. But with proper counselling and monitoring, it gave hope to someone who was struggling deeply. It’s amazing how one medicine can change a life when used with care. This story reminds us that empathy and evidence together can do wonders. As a pharmacy graduate, I feel proud to learn such meaningful uses.

12

very informative