Pharmacologic approaches to therapy for vasovagal syncope

Am J Cardiol. 1999 Oct 21;84(8A):20Q-25Q. doi: 10.1016/s0002-9149(99)00626-8.

Abstract

Vasovagal syncope is a common disorder of autonomic cardiovascular regulation. Many pharmacologic agents have been proposed as effective in the management of this condition based on nonrandomized clinical trials. Notably, only 3 agents--atenolol, midodrine, and paroxetine--have demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of vasovagal syncope in at least 1 prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Other therapies commonly used in treating syncope include increased salt and fluid intake and fludrocortisone. In this review, we provide a summary of currently available data that support or question the use of various pharmacologic agents for treatment of vasovagal syncope.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Atenolol / therapeutic use
  • Fludrocortisone / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Midodrine / therapeutic use
  • Paroxetine / therapeutic use
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Syncope, Vasovagal / drug therapy*
  • Syncope, Vasovagal / etiology
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Paroxetine
  • Atenolol
  • Midodrine
  • Fludrocortisone