Management of vasovagal syncope

Abstract

Vasovagal syncope is a common disorder of autonomic cardiovascular regulation that can be very disabling and result in a significant level of psychosocial and physical limitations. The optimal approach to treatment of patients with vasovagal syncope remains uncertain. Although many different types of treatment have been proposed and appear effective based largely on small nonrandomized studies and clinical series, there is a remarkable absence of data from large prospective clinical trials. However, based on currently available data, the pharmacologic agents most likely to be effective in the treatment of patients with vasovagal syncope include beta blockers, fludrocortisone, and alpha-adrenergic agonists. In this article, we provide a summary of the various therapeutic options that have been proposed for vasovagal syncope and review the clinical studies that form the basis of present therapy for this relatively common entity.