The biological approach to treating OCD

• What is the primary aim of drug therapy for OCD?

  To change levels of neurotransmitters
• What neurotransmitter is associated with OCD?

  Serotonin
• How long does it typically take for SSRIs to show impact?

  3-4 months of daily use
• How do tricyclics affect the serotonin system?

  They have the same effect as SSRIs
• What are SNRIs used for in OCD treatment?

  To increase serotonin and noradrenaline levels
• What happens if patients do not respond to SSRIs?

  SNRIs can be used as an alternative
• What are the strengths and limitations of drug therapy for OCD?

  Strengths:

  • Cost-effective compared to psychological treatments
  • Do not disrupt patients' daily lives

  
  

  Limitations:

  • Can have side effects
  • May not benefit all individuals
  • Side effects include indigestion, blurred vision, low sex drive
  • Evidence for effectiveness can be unreliable
  • Often short-term effectiveness
  • Potential for controversial marketing by companies
• what are obsessions

  intrusive thoughts
• what are compulsions

  repetitive behaviours
• what are SSRIs used for?

  • prevents reabsorption and breakdown of serotonin in brain
  • therefore increases levels in synapses