Domperidone: heart rate and rhythm disorders.(Safety and Efficacy Issues)

Domperidone is a peripheral dopamine antagonist structurally related to the butyrophenones with antiemetic and gastroprokinetic properties (1). In Canada, domperidone (Motilium[R]) was marketed in 1985 but has not been available since 2002. However, many generic brands are currently available.

Domperidone is indicated for the symptomatic management of upper gastrointestinal motility disorders associated with chronic and subacute gastritis and diabetic gastroparesis. It may also be used to prevent gastrointestinal symptoms associated with the use of dopamine agonist antiparkinsonian agents (1). In addition, the off-label clinical use of antidopaminergic drugs to induce …