Use of Domperidone as a Prokinetic and Antiemetic
Author(s): Albright Lisa M
Issue: Mar/Apr 2005 - Health and Wellness
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Page(s): 120-125
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Abstract: Domperidone is a synthetic benzimidazole compound that acts as a dopamine D2 receptor antagonist. Its localization outside the blood-brain barrier and antiemetic properties have made it a useful adjunct in therapy for Parkinson’s disease. There has been renewed interest in antidopaminergic prokinetic agents since the withdrawal of cisapride, a 5-HT4 agonist, from the market. Domperidone also is as a prokinetic agent for treatment of upper gastrointestinal motility disorders. It continues to be an attractive alternative to metoclopramide because it has fewer neurological side effects. Patients receiving domperidone or other prokinetic agents for diabetic gastropathy or gastroparesis should also be managing diet, lifestyle, and other medications to optimize gastric motility.
Related Keywords: Lisa M. Albright, PhD, domperidone, gastrointestinal motility, dopamine D2 receptor, vomiting, Parkinson's disease, prokinetic, antiemetic, diabetic gastropathy, gastroparesis, diabetes, gastric emptying