Methylphenidate

• Methylphenidate has been repeatedly shown to reduce the incidence of syncope (fainting), presyncope (near fainting), and fatigue in individuals with POTS who have not responded well to other treatment options.

• Although this medication is similar to amphetamine, it has a better safety profile with fewer side effects, which is of course ideal for individuals in our community (Kanjwal et al., 2012).

• Although it was previously used for individuals with neurocardiogenic syncope (vasovagal syncope), researchers have discovered how beneficial it can be for some in our community, especially for those who are not responding to other medications (Kanjwal et al., 2012).

Source:

Kanjwal, K., Saeed, B., Karabin, B., Kanjwal, Y., & Grubb, B. P. (2012). Use of methylphenidate in the treatment of patients suffering from refractory postural tachycardia syndrome. American Journal of Therapeutics, 19(1), 2–6. https://doi.org/10.1097/mjt.0b013e3181dd21d2