Drug therapy for mental disorders aims to increase/decrease levels of neurotransmitters in the brain or increase/decrease their activity
What is the antidepressant drug used to tackle the symptoms of OCD?
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
SSRIs work on the serotonin in the brain
Serotonin is released by certain neurons (presynaptic neurons) in the brain and travels across a synapse
The neurotransmitter chemically conveys the signal from the presynaptic neuron to the postsynaptic neuron and then it is reabsorbed by the presynaptic neuron where it is broken down and reused
How do SSRIs increase levels of serotonin in the synapse?
By preventing the reabsorption and breakdown
What is the effect of increased serotonin from SSRIs?
Compensates for whatever is wrong with the serotonin system in OCD
SSRIs increase levels of serotonin in the synapse and therefore continue to stimulate the post synaptic neuron
When does dosage of a SSRI vary?
According to which one is prescribed
When may a daily dosage of SSRI "Flouxetine" be increased?
If it is not benefitting the person
What is the typical daily dole of SSRI "Flouxetine"?
20mg
What is an example of a SSRI?
Flouxetine
How long of daily usage of SSRIs does it take to have an impact?
3-4 months
Drugs are often used alongside cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) to treat OCD
Why are drugs often used alongside CBT to treat OCD?
The drugs reduce a person's emotional symptoms, so they can engage more effectively with the CBT
Some people respond best to CBT alone while others benefit from it alongsideSSRIs like fluoxetine
What might happen where an SSRI is not effective after 3-4 months?
The dose can be increased OR it can be combined with other drugs
What are two types of alternative drugs to SSRIs?
Tricyclics, SNRIs
SSRIs
A) SSRI blocking reabsorption of serotonin
B) Presynaptic nerve
C) Synapse
D) Postsynaptic nerve
Tricyclics
Acts on various systems (such as the serotonin system) - can have more severeside effects than SSRIs
SNRIs
Increases levels of serotonin as well as noradrenaline
Strength: Drug treatment for OCD
What? Evidence for effectiveness
Who? Soomro - SSRIs to placebos; SSRIs significantly better (symptoms down 70%)
Why? Drugs helpful for most
Strength: Drug treatment for OCD
What? Cost-effective + non-disruptive
Who? Cheap - good value for NHS + non-disruptive to people's lives compared to therapy
Why? Popular w/ people + doctors
Limitation: Drug treatment for OCD
What? Serious side-effects
Who? Indigestion, blurred vision, loss of sex drive (temporary but distressing)