RECOVER-AUTONOMIC clinical trial results shared at 2026 ACC Conference

The RECOVER-AUTONOMIC (Ivabradine) clinical trial results were shared as part of a Late-Breaking Clinical Trials Session at the conference. This study is one of 2 RECOVER clinical trials testing possible treatments in adults who developed postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) after having COVID-19. POTS is an autonomic nervous system disorder characterized by unexpectedly fast heart rate (without a significant drop in blood pressure) that occurs within 10 minutes of standing up from sitting or lying down. Symptoms of POTS include chronic dizziness, fainting, fatigue, and other symptoms that make it challenging to manage everyday responsibilities. Data show that 31% of people with Long COVID develop POTS.

The study included 181 adults with Long COVID POTS (people who have Long COVID and diagnosed POTS) from across the United States. Study participants were randomly assigned to receive either ivabradine or a placebo (an inactive pill that is designed to look like the drug but does not have the drug’s effect) for 3 months, plus 3 months of follow up. Participants were also assigned to receive either coordinated care or usual care for 3 months. Coordinated care includes regular check-ins with a care coordinator as well as specific recommendations for diet and lifestyle changes.

Participant surveys showed that treatment with ivabradine did not significantly improve POTS symptoms in adults with Long COVID POTS. Ivabradine did produce a significant reduction in heart rate compared to placebo, but the lower heart rate did not improve POTS symptoms. Participants who received coordinated care in addition to ivabradine did report an improvement in their symptoms compared to those who received ivabradine and usual care.