Using domperidone to increase breast milk supply: A clinical practice survey of australian neonatal units

Christine E. Gilmartin, Lisa H. Amir, Marene Ter, Luke E. Grzeskowiak

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

14 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Background: Domperidone may be used off-label to increase breastmilk supply. In the absence of manufacturer dosage recommendations, there is a need to compare the clinical practice guidelines used in Australian hospitals. Aim: To compare existing clinical practice guidelines regarding the use of domperidone for increasing maternal breastmilk supply within Australian neonatal units (NNUs). Methods: An electronic survey was distributed from April to July 2015 to relevant staff at each Level III NNU across Australia. Results: Responses were received from 16 of 22 (73%) NNUs. All 16 (100%) NNUs considered domperidone their first line pharmacological agent of choice in the management of low milk supply, with 12 (75%) having a clinical guideline. Of the NNUs with a guideline, 11 (92%) recommended a standard maintenance dose of 10 mg three times daily (TDS). Duration of treatment was specified in 10 (83%) guidelines. Seven of 10 (70%) recommend a minimum duration of at least 2 weeks treatment before evaluating a response. Three of 11 (27%) guidelines that recommended 10 mg TDS permitted an increase to 20 mg TDS depending on response. Ten of 12 (83%) guidelines were modified in the previous 2–3 years, with eight revising their maximum dose to 30 mg/day, one limiting treatment duration to 7 days, and one removing the authority of NNU doctors to prescribe domperidone. Conclusion: While all Australian neonatal units consider domperidone first-line for pharmacological management of low milk supply, variability across clinical guidelines may suggest a lack of reliable evidence or awareness of evidence on which to base practice.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)426-430
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of Pharmacy Practice and Research
Volume47
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished or Issued - Dec 2017
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Breast milk
  • Breastfeeding
  • Domperidone
  • Galactogogue

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pharmacy
  • Pharmacology (medical)

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