Motilium is one of the best-known digestive medications in Spain. Its active ingredient is domperidone, and is used to relieve nausea and vomiting.
What is Motilium used for and how does it work?
Motilium acts on the digestive system. It stimulates stomach emptying and helps reduce nausea and vomiting. It is indicated for adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older who weigh at least 35 kg.
It works by blocking dopamine receptors in the gastrointestinal tract. This helps with food transit and reduces discomfort. It is not a gastric protector or an antacid. It is also not useful for treating poisoning or stomach infections.
How do you take Motilium and for how long?
Motilium can be administered as tablets, oral suspension, or orodispersible tablets, preferably before meals. The tablets should be swallowed with a small amount of water or other liquid, without chewing.
The usual dose is one tablet up to three times a day. The prescribed dose must never be exceeded. Treatment with domperidone should not last more than 7 days and should always be administered under medical supervision.
Contraindications and side effects
Motilium is not recommended for everyone. It should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or by people with serious liver problems or heart conditions such as heart failure or arrhythmias. It is also not recommended for children under 12 years of age or people weighing less than 35 kg.
In 2014, the European Medicines Agency restricted its use after detecting that high doses increased the risk of serious arrhythmias and sudden death. Since then, the maximum recommended dose is 30 mg per day.
It should also not be combined with certain medications that affect heart rhythm, such as those that prolong the QT interval on the electrocardiogram. For example, some antibiotics, antifungals, or antidepressants.
The most common side effects include dry mouth, headache, and drowsiness. In rare cases, it can cause hormonal disturbances such as galactorrhea (milk secretion) or gynecomastia (breast enlargement in men).
Where is Motilium available?
Motilium (domperidone) is approved with a prescription in most European countries, including Spain, France, and the United Kingdom. It is also marketed in much of Latin America, including Mexico, Argentina, and Colombia.
In the United States, however, it is not approved by the FDA due to concerns about its cardiac safety. It can only be used in exceptional cases through special access programs and under strict medical supervision.
Availability and conditions of use may vary by country, so it is always advisable to consult with a local healthcare professional.
Final recommendations and responsible use
Motilium can be helpful if used correctly, but it should not be taken as a quick fix for any stomach upset. Self-medication is a risk. If digestive symptoms persist or have no clear cause, it may be necessary to consult your doctor or a specialist in internal medicine, who will be able to assess the case comprehensively.
In addition, it should not be mixed with alcohol or other medications without prior medical advice. Although it requires a prescription, many people have used it long-term without medical justification. The key is professional supervision. Only your doctor or specialist can assess whether Motilium is appropriate or if there are safer alternatives. And always remember to review the official manufacturer's leaflet.
