Domperidone and phaeochromocytoma

A European review of safety data for domperidone identified an association between domperidone and episodes of severe hypertension in patients with phaeochromocytoma following a small number of reports of this event (1).

The MHRA has provided guidance:

Advice for Healthcare Professionals:

• a small number of reports have been received relating to severe episodes of hypertension in patients with phaeochromocytoma (a rare tumour of the adrenal gland) following administration of domperidone
• domperidone is now contraindicated in patients with confirmed or suspected phaeochromocytoma
• patients with confirmed or suspected phaeochromocytoma should stop taking domperidone immediately and be switched to an alternative treatment
• be aware that administration of domperidone can unmask phaeochromocytomas. If a patient taking domperidone has an episode of severe hypertension, consider further investigations for phaeochromocytoma
• domperidone should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration and maximum treatment duration should not usually exceed 1 week
• for patients receiving palliative care, an individual benefit risk decision on treatment should be made in discussion with the patient
• report suspected adverse drug reactions associated with domperidone via the Yellow Card scheme

Reference:

1. MHRA Drug Safety Update volume 19, issue 12: July 2026: 2.