Use of octreotide in the treatment of refractory orthostatic intolerance

There have been reports on the use of octreotide in patients with orthostatic hypotension, postural tachycardia syndrome, and orthostatic syncope. However, there are little if any data on the use of octreotide in patients who have failed multiple other medications. This study was a retrospective chart analysis and was approved by our Institutional Review Board. A total of 12 patients were identified for inclusion in this study. The diagnosis of orthostatic intolerance was based on patient history, physical examination, and response to Head Up Tilt Table testing. These patients had failed multiple medications and were ultimately treated with octreotide. In a retrospective chart review, we collected data, including demographic information, presenting symptoms, laboratory data, tilt-table response, standing heart rate, standing blood pressure before and after treatment (wherever available), and treatment outcomes. Twelve patients aged 33 ± 18 years, eight (66.7%) females, were found to have symptoms of refractory orthostatic intolerance and failed multiple regimens of medication and were ultimately treated with octreotide administration. Five patients (41.7%) had demonstrated a postural tachycardia syndrome pattern, five (41.7%) a neurocardiogenic, and two (16.6%) a dysautonomic response on a Head Up Tilt Table. Symptoms of syncope and orthostatic palpitations improved in six (50%) of the patients. Standing heart rate was significantly reduced after octreotide administration (80 ± 8 versus 108 ± 13; P < 0.05). The standing systolic blood pressure was increased after octreotide administration (107 ± 26 versus 116 ± 22). Three patients (25%) reported complete elimination of syncope, whereas another three had reduction in the frequency of their syncope. However, symptoms of fatigue improved only in two (29%) of the seven patients. Octreotide may improve symptoms in some patients with refractory orthostatic intolerance.