Prevention of Syncope Trial (POST)

Abstract

Background— Previous studies that assessed the effects of β-blockers in preventing vasovagal syncope provided mixed results. Our goal was to determine whether treatment with metoprolol reduces the risk of syncope in patients with vasovagal syncope. Methods and Results— The multicenter Prevention of Syncope Trial (POST) was a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, trial designed to assess the effects of metoprolol in vasovagal syncope over a 1-year treatment period. Two prespecified analyses included the relationships of age and initial tilt-test results to any benefit from metoprolol. All patients had >2 syncopal spells and a positive tilt test. Randomization was stratified according to ages Conclusions— Metoprolol was not effective in preventing vasovagal syncope in the study population.