Is Motilium (domperidone) safe to use during pregnancy?

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Last updated: June 9, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Motilium (domperidone) is safe to use during pregnancy, according to the most recent guidelines. The 2023 EASL clinical practice guidelines on the management of liver diseases in pregnancy indicate that domperidone is compatible with use in all trimesters of pregnancy, as well as with breastfeeding and paternal exposure 1.

Key Points to Consider

  • The guidelines list domperidone as a second-line recommended treatment for management of Hyperemesis Gravidarum, suggesting its use is supported in the context of pregnancy 1.
  • While there may be concerns about the safety of various medications during pregnancy, the evidence from the EASL guidelines suggests that domperidone can be used when clinically justified 1.
  • It's essential to weigh the benefits and risks of any medication during pregnancy, and healthcare providers should consider the individual case before prescribing domperidone or any other medication.
  • The typical dose and treatment duration should be determined by a healthcare provider, taking into account the specific needs and health status of the pregnant individual.

Safety and Efficacy

The safety of domperidone in pregnancy is supported by the EASL guidelines, which are based on a systematic review of the literature and rated according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine guidelines 1.

  • The guidelines emphasize the importance of using the lowest effective dose and avoiding abrupt withdrawal of domperidone 1.
  • As with any medication, it's crucial to monitor for potential side effects and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.

Comparison with Other Options

  • Other anti-emetics like metoclopramide, ondansetron, and cyclizine are also listed as compatible with use in pregnancy, but the choice of medication should be based on individual patient needs and the specific clinical scenario 1.
  • Healthcare providers should discuss the risks and benefits of each option with their patients to make an informed decision.

From the FDA Drug Label

Pregnant and lactating women should use caution when handling EQUIDONE Gel, as systemic exposure to domperidone may affect reproductive hormones. The FDA drug label does not answer the question.

From the Research

Motilium Safety in Pregnancy

  • There is limited information available on the safety of Motilium (domperidone) during pregnancy in the provided studies.
  • However, one study 2 discusses the pharmacological activity, pharmacokinetics, and therapeutic efficacy of domperidone, but it does not specifically address its safety during pregnancy.
  • Another study 3 mentions the treatment of constipation during pregnancy, but it does not discuss Motilium or domperidone.
  • Studies 4, 5, and 6 focus on different topics, including the treatment of diabetes, thrombophilia, and hypertension in pregnancy, and do not provide information on the safety of Motilium during pregnancy.
  • Therefore, based on the provided evidence, there is no direct information available to determine the safety of Motilium (domperidone) during pregnancy.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Treating constipation during pregnancy.

Canadian family physician Medecin de famille canadien, 2012

Research

Pharmacologic Treatment of Diabetes in Pregnancy.

Obstetrical & gynecological survey, 2019

Research

Thrombophilia and anticoagulation in pregnancy: indications, risks and management.

The journal of maternal-fetal & neonatal medicine : the official journal of the European Association of Perinatal Medicine, the Federation of Asia and Oceania Perinatal Societies, the International Society of Perinatal Obstetricians, 2008

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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