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Can any doctor prescribe domperidone?

Understanding Domperidone Prescription
Domperidone is a medication primarily used to treat nausea and vomiting, as well as to enhance gastric motility. It works by blocking dopamine receptors in the gut and the brain, which can help control symptoms associated with digestive issues.
Who Can Prescribe Domperidone?
Prescribing Authority: In many countries, the authority to prescribe medication, including domperidone, typically rests with licensed medical practitioners. This includes:
– General Practitioners (GPs): They can prescribe domperidone for appropriate indications after evaluating the patient’s condition.
– Specialists: Gastroenterologists, neurologists, and other specialists often prescribe domperidone for specific gastrointestinal disorders.
Regulatory Considerations: The specific regulations governing who can prescribe domperidone can vary by country and region. In some jurisdictions, the medication may require a prescription due to its side effects and potential risks.
Indications for Use
Domperidone is generally prescribed for:
– Nausea and Vomiting: Often related to chemotherapy, surgery, or other medical treatments.
– Gastroparesis: A condition where the stomach cannot empty itself normally.
– Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): To improve gastric emptying and reduce reflux symptoms.
Risks and Precautions
While domperidone is effective, it is essential to be aware of potential side effects, which include:
– Cardiovascular issues, such as arrhythmias, particularly in patients with pre-existing heart conditions.
– Hormonal changes leading to galactorrhea (milk production) or menstrual irregularities.
Because of these risks, medical professionals must assess the benefit-to-risk ratio before prescribing domperidone.
Conclusion
In summary, any licensed medical doctor can prescribe domperidone, provided they believe it is appropriate for the patient’s medical condition. Patients should always consult with their healthcare providers to ensure they receive the most suitable treatment tailored to their specific needs.

How can I get domperidone?

Domperidone is available on prescription only. It comes as tablets or as a liquid that you swallow.

What does domperidone do to the brain?

Domperidone is a selective antagonist of the dopamine (D2) receptor. It stimulates antral contractions and has promotility activity similar to that of metoclopramide. It does not cross the blood–brain barrier, so it is less likely to cause extrapyramidal side effects.

Can my doctor prescribe domperidone?

Domperidone is not an FDA-approved drug for any indication, or use, in humans. Domperidone is approved in some countries, but not in the U.S., to treat certain gastrointestinal disorders.

What drugs are like domperidone?

Metoclopramide (also known as Maxeran or Reglan or Metonia)
Like Domperidone, it is supposed to help relief nausea, vomiting and also help with speeding up gastric emptying times and also help with reflux. It poses a risk of developing serious side effects such as Tardive Dyskenesia and Neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

Is omeprazole the same as domperidone?

A pump called the proton pump in the stomach is responsible for the secretion of stomach acids. Omeprazole works by binding to this proton pump in stomach cells, thus blocking acid secretion. Domperidone works by increasing the motility of the stomach and intestines so that acid does not reflux back into the food pipe.

What is the problem with domperidone?

Domperidone may cause a condition that affects the heart rhythm (QT prolongation). QT prolongation can rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms (such as severe dizziness, fainting) that need medical attention right away.

Who cannot take domperidone?

have a condition that can cause a blockage in your bowel, such as Crohn’s disease or diverticulitis. have ever had bleeding from your stomach or gut. have a tumour on your pituitary gland. have liver, kidney or heart problems, or an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)

Can a pharmacist prescribe domperidone?

Only your health care provider can prescribe Domperidone for you. Tell your health care provider about any medications or herbal remedies you are taking and any health conditions you have.

What is a safer alternative to domperidone?

Metoclopramide is generally considered a safe alternative for domperidone.

What is better than domperidone?

Domperidone – a dopamine antagonist – is also readily used despite its low efficacy. Ondansetron – a serotonin antagonist – is approved for the treatment of nausea and vomiting and has better side effects profile [9].

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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