The efficacy of midodrine hydrochloride in the treatment of children with vasovagal syncope.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether midodrine hydrochloride therapy can prevent vasovagal syncope (VVS) in pediatric patients.

STUDY DESIGN: Children with recurrent syncope (n = 26) were randomly assigned into 2 groups. Group I comprised children given midodrine hydrochloride as first-line therapy in addition to conventional therapy, and group II comprised patients receiving conventional therapy only. Repeat head-up tilt (HUT) testing and follow-up of least 6 months were conducted to evaluate the therapeutic effectiveness and side effects of midodrine in treating VVS in children.

RESULTS: The HUT-based effective rate was significantly higher in group I than in group II (75% vs 20%; P < .05). During the follow-up period, the recurrence of syncope was significantly lower in group I than in group II (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS: Midodrine hydrochlorate is effective in treating VVS in children, especially in preventing recurrent episodes. Few side effects were observed in the present study.