Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (Paxil) Does Not Prevent the Vasovagal Reaction Associated With Carotid Sinus Massage and/or Lower Body Negative Pressure in Healthy Volunteers

Background— The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of the serotonin reuptake inhibitor paroxetine hydrochloride (Paxil, SmithKline Beecham) on cardiovascular reflexes. We hypothesized that Paxil prevents neurally mediated syncope (NMS) by attenuating the sympathoinhibition and vagotonia associated with a vasovagal reaction. Methods and Results— In a double-blind randomized study, 25 healthy subjects with a positive response to either carotid sinus massage (CSM) or lower body negative pressure (LBNP) received Paxil (20 mg/d) or placebo for 6 weeks. Arterial baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), muscle sympathetic nerve activity (SNA), baroreflex control of SNA, blood pressure, and heart rate responses to CSM and LBNP were measured at baseline and at 6 weeks. Nineteen subjects completed the study (Paxil, n=9; placebo, n=10). In the Paxil group, BRS decreased significantly compared with baseline (15.8±4.0 ms/mm Hg versus 11.0±2.6 ms/mm Hg, P=0.05); however, all 9 subjects continued to have a positive res...