Boosting Milk Supply? The Facts About Domperidone
A compassionate look at one tool in the lactation toolkit
One of the most common concerns I hear from postpartum mothers is:
“Am I making enough milk?”
It’s a question loaded with emotion, uncertainty, and pressure. And for some, despite their best efforts—frequent nursing, pumping, skin-to-skin, nutrition, hydration—milk supply still feels low or insufficient. If you’ve been in this position, you’re not alone.
When all the basics have been addressed and a family is still struggling, Domperidone may come up as a potential option for supporting lactation. Let’s talk about what it is, how it works, and what the science says.
What is Domperidone?
Domperidone is a prescription medication originally used to treat digestive issues like nausea and delayed gastric emptying. But it has another, lesser-known effect: it increases prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production.
This makes it useful for:
Mothers with low supply despite frequent nursing or pumping
Induced lactation (for adoptive parents or intended parents in surrogacy)
Relactation after a break in nursing
Certain hormonal or anatomical challenges affecting milk production
How Does It Work?
Domperidone doesn’t work directly on the breasts—it acts on the brain. Specifically, it blocks dopamine, which normally inhibits prolactin. Less dopamine means more prolactin, and more prolactin can support increased milk production.
The medication does not replace frequent breast stimulation, a good latch, or supportive lactation care—but it can enhance the body’s hormonal ability to make milk when other barriers have been addressed.
What Does the Research Say?
Several studies support Domperidone’s effectiveness in increasing milk volume:
A 2012 meta-analysis published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology reviewed multiple trials and concluded that Domperidone led to “moderate increases in milk production” compared to placebo (Osadchy et al., 2012).
In a 2008 study of mothers with preterm infants, Domperidone significantly increased milk supply in those who had been pumping regularly without sufficient output (Campbell-Yeo et al., 2008).
Domperidone is also preferred over Metoclopramide due to fewer central nervous system side effects, as it does not cross the blood-brain barrier as easily (Grzeskowiak et al., 2017).
Is It Safe?
Domperidone has been used in many countries (including Canada) for lactation support under healthcare provider supervision. It’s important to note:
It should not be used without ruling out other causes of low milk supply.
It is generally not recommended for those with a history of certain heart conditions (it may affect cardiac rhythm in rare cases).
It passes into breastmilk in small amounts, but studies have found no harmful effects on infants at therapeutic maternal doses.
There are risks you should know associated with tapering off domperidone too quickly
This is why it’s essential to work with a qualified provider, ideally with lactation support training, to assess your individual situation and determine whether Domperidone is appropriate.
A Holistic Approach Matters Most
Medication like Domperidone can be a helpful tool—but not the whole answer. Before considering a prescription, a medical professional or Lactation Consultant will likely first explore:
Optimizing latch and positioning
Infant oral anatomy (tongue tie, etc.)
Frequency of nursing or pumping
Nutrition, hydration, and rest
Hormonal imbalances or thyroid issues
Birth experience or postpartum complications
When paired with informed lactation support, and a nurturing environment, the research shows Domperidone may provide that extra boost some parents need.
If You’re Wondering About Domperidone…
You’re not alone, and you’re not failing. Milk supply concerns are real and complex, and there are evidence-based options available to help.
My Directory with local Lactation Consultants and Doctors are here to support you in finding the most compassionate, least invasive, and most effective way forward.
Whether this article sparks a conversation, a referral, or simply holding space for your story—I’m honoured to walk alongside you.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36367713/
Key References:
Osadchy A, Moretti M, Koren G. (2012). Effect of domperidone on insufficient lactation in puerperal women: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Clin Pharmacol, 73(5): 799–803. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2125.2012.04366.x
Grzeskowiak LE et al. (2017). Evidence-based guidelines for use of domperidone for increasing breast milk production. J Paediatr Child Health, 53(1): 98–102. https://doi.org/10.1111/jpc.13391
Campbell-Yeo M et al. (2008). Effect of domperidone on the composition of breast milk: a double-blind randomized controlled trial. Pediatrics, 122(1): e91–e97. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2007-2525
