biological approach to treating OCD

• SSRI antidepressant (prozac): reduces anxiety associated with OCD, blocks re-uptake of serotonin in the presynaptic membrane, increasing serotonin concentration at receptor sites on the post synaptic membrane. may have the effect of normalising the 'worry' circuit.
• tricyclic antidepressants (anafranil): blocks the transporter mechanism that reabsorbs both serotonin and noradrenaline into presynaptic cells that released them to increase serotonin and noradrenaline levels. BUT more side effects than SSRIs so used when SSRIs have not been effective.
• benzodiazepine (BZ) anti-anxiety drugs (valium): enhance activity of GABA, general quietening effect on many brain neurons. BZs react with GABA receptors on receiving neuron making it harder for the neuron to be simulated by other neurotransmitters, neuron activity slowed down, induces feelings of relaxation.
• • evidence of effectiveness, 17 studies that compared SSRIs to placebos, all studies showed better outcomes for SSRIs, 70% of people taking SSRIs have reduced symptoms.
• • drug therapy cost effective and non-disruptive, good use for NHS who have limited funds, can be taken until symptoms stop
• • serious side effects, can be distressing and long term. eg tricylics - weight gain, erection problems, 1/100 became more aggressive and heart problems means some may have reduced quality of life.
• • high relapse rates, study found higher relapse rates for patients taking drugs compared to CBT, suggests efficient short term but combination of both most effective.