Motilium alternatives

Tired of nausea, bloating, or slow digestion and wondering what to try instead of Motilium (domperidone)? You’re not alone. Domperidone works for many people, but it’s restricted in some places because of heart rhythm risks and can raise prolactin. Below I list real alternatives, who they suit, and what safety points to check before you switch.

Prescription alternatives

Metoclopramide is the obvious alternative most doctors try. It speeds stomach emptying and helps nausea, but it crosses into the brain and can cause tremor, drowsiness, or, rarely, tardive dyskinesia with long use. Short courses at the lowest effective dose are the usual approach.

Erythromycin, given at low doses, acts on motilin receptors to boost gastric emptying. It can be helpful for gastroparesis, but it’s an antibiotic—using it long term risks resistance and gut side effects. Your prescriber may use it for short bursts or when other drugs fail.

Ondansetron and other serotonin 5-HT3 blockers don’t speed digestion, but they block nausea signals very well. They’re commonly used for chemotherapy, post-op nausea, or severe vomiting episodes. They’re usually safe but can affect heart rhythm when combined with other QT-prolonging drugs, so your doctor will check your meds and heart history.

Non-prescription options & lifestyle

Ginger is a surprisingly useful over-the-counter option. Ground ginger, candied ginger, or ginger capsules can reduce mild nausea for many people, including some pregnant women. It won’t fix delayed gastric emptying but can ease the symptom of nausea on its own.

Antihistamines like promethazine or meclizine help motion sickness and some types of nausea. They cause drowsiness and are better for short-term use or bedtime dosing. Read labels if you need to drive or operate machinery.

Don’t forget simple behavior fixes: smaller, frequent meals; low-fat, low-fiber choices during flare-ups; avoid lying flat after eating; and raise the head of your bed if reflux coexists. These measures often reduce symptoms and let medicines work better.

Herbal remedies and supplements can help but check interactions. For example, some herbal bitters, peppermint, or chamomile may ease digestion but can conflict with other meds or conditions.

Before you switch: tell your doctor about all meds, heart problems, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Some options raise prolactin or affect heart rhythm; others have neurological risks. Good communication keeps you safer and speeds finding the right plan.

If nausea is sudden, severe, or linked to weight loss, bleeding, or fainting, seek medical help fast. Persistent symptoms need tests—blood work, imaging, or gastric-emptying studies—to guide the best alternative. A tailored plan beats guesswork every time.