[Serotonin re-uptake inhibitors as primary therapy for carotid sinus hypersensitivity]

Carotid sinus syndrome is a well-recognized cause of unexplained syncope in older patients, and may, lead to significant morbidity due to trauma from falls. Dual chamber pacing has been shown to be effective in relieving symptoms due to bradycardia, but not due to vasodepressor response. We report an 84-year-old man with recurrent syncope due to carotid sinus hypersensitivity. He was treated only with a serotonin reuptake inhibitor and was symptom-free after 3 weeks of therapy. He has remained symptom-free for the past year.