Treatment

• Anti depressants are used to treat OCD, the main aim of which is to elevate the serotonin levels in OCD patients and allow the orbitofrontal cortex to function at more normal levels.

  SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) such as Prozac are the most common anti depressant to reduce anxiety assosciated with OCD. They work by blocking the reuptake of serotonin back into the neuron.
• Anti anxiety drugs such as BZ are also used to lower anxiety levels. They work by increasing the level of GABA which slows down activity in the nervous system. A common brand name is valium.
• Anti psychotics are used to lower dopamine levels. These are only generally given after treatment with SSRIs has proved ineffective or incurs serious side effects.
• A03 - Limitation

  • Drugs do not cure OCD but reduce obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviour to such a level that normal lifestyles can be achieved.
• A03 - Limitation

  • A problem with drug treatment with OCD is side effects
  • For e.g. SSRIs can have huge side effects such as nausea, insomnia, headaches and loss of appetite
• A03 - Strengths

  • OCD drug treatment is cheaper than psychological treatment and does not require a therapist to administer them
  • They also require little time and effort from the user compared to CBT where the individual will attend meetings and put thought into tackling problems
• A03

  Drugs are often used alongside CBT to treat OCD. Drugs reduce a patient's emotional symptoms, such as anxiety and depression

  Patients can engage more effectively with CBT