Does domperidone, a D ₂-antagonist alter gastric emptying rates and appetite sensations in healthy adults with high-fat meal? A block-randomised, single-blind placebo-controlled study

Background: Accelerated gastric emptying (GE) may lead to reduced satiation, increased food intake and is associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Domperidone is a dopamine 2 (D ₂) receptor antagonist with claims of gastrointestinal tract pro-kinetic activity. In humans, domperidone is used as an anti-emetic and treatment for gastrointestinal bloating and discomfort. Aim To determine the effect of acute domperidone administration on GE rate and appetite sensations in healthy adults. Methods: A single-blind block randomised placebo-controlled crossover study assessed 13 healthy adults. Subjects ingested 10 mg domperidone or placebo 30 min before a high-fat (HF) test meal. GE rate was determined using the ¹³CO ₂ octanoic acid breath test. Breath samples and subjective appetite ratings were collected in the fasted and during the 360 min postprandial period. Results: Gastric emptying half-time was similar following placebo (254 ± 54 min) and 10 mg domperidone (236 ± 65 min). Domperidone did not change appetite sensations during the 360 min postprandial period (P>0.05). Conclusions: In healthy adults, acute administration of 10 mg domperidone did not change GE or appetite sensations following a HF test meal (NCT01347814).