Novel pharmacotherapeutic options for the treatment of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome

Abstract

Introduction: Postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a disorder characterized by a constellation of symptoms including lightheadedness, fatigue, and palpitations when upright, associated with an increase in the heart rate (HR) of > 30 beats per minute when changing from a lying down to standing position or head-up tilt position and not associated with orthostatic hypotension. The causes as well as the management of POTS are not quite fully understood.

Areas covered: We performed a literature review on the diagnosis and management of POTS, and this article includes an overview of novel pharmacotherapeutic options for the treatment of (POTS), although an effective treatment has not been established.

Expert opinion: POTS is a clinical syndrome characterized by a constellation of symptoms that are nonspecific. No single etiology or unified hypothesis could be identified. In fact, multiple pathophysiological mechanisms have been proposed, and none of the suggested medications have been approved by the FDA for this indication. Further understanding of the autonomic nervous system and its adjustment to standing position is needed to provide better management strategies.

Keywords: Management; Orthostatic intolerance; medications; pharmacotherapy; postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome.