Drug therapy

• What are SSRI's?

  SSRI's are a type of antidepressant that work on the serotonin system. They aim to increase serotonin, as people with OCD have problems with serotonin being absorbed too quickly. SSRI's are designed to inhibit the absorption of serotonin within the synapse.
• What are MAOI's?

  MAOI's are an older type of antidepressant used when SSRI's do not work. Liebowitz (1992) found that they were more effective at reducing anxiety than a placebo. They block the enzyme that breaks down serotonin so that there is more available in the brain, they can reduce panic symptoms however they often react badly with other drugs.
• What are benzodiazepines?

  Benzodiazepines are anti-anxiety medication. They increase GABA which essentially tells the neurons to 'stop stressing', as they have an inhibitory effect. BZ has a calming effect on the CNS, anxiety caused by obsessions is reduced, therefore less obsession= less compulsive behaviour.