treating OCD

• antidepressants: SSRIs


  low levels of serotonin associated with depression as well as OCD. implicated in worry circuit

  selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors are preferred drug for treating anxiety disorders - Choy and Schneider.

  increase levels of serotonin by inhibiting re-uptake. regulates mood and anxiety.
• antidepressants: tricyclics


  block the transport mechanism that re-absorbs serotonin and noradrenaline into the pre-synaptic cell.

  left in the synapse, prolonging their activity.

  targets more than one neurotransmitter but has greater side effects. used as a second-line treatment.
• anti-anxiety drugs


  Benzodiazepines commonly used to reduce anxiety.

  slow down activity of CNS by enhancing the activity of GABA.

  GABA locks into GABA receptors and opens a channel that increases the flow of chloride ions. make it harder for the neurons to be stimulated by other neurotransmitters.

  makes person more relaxed
• other drugs


  Kushner et al - D-Cycloserine reduces anxiety, may be an effective treatment for OCD; particularly when used in conjunction with psychotherapy.

  antibiotic used in treatment of tuberculosis.

  enhances the transmission of GABA to reduce anxiety.