Psychopathology - biological approach to treating OCD

Question 1

what are SSRIs

Answer 1

• work on serotonin system
• released in presynaptic neuron and travels across a synapse then to the postsynaptic neurone and then broken down and reused
• prevent the reabsorption and breakdown which increases the levels of serotonin in the synapse and stimulate the neurone

Question 2

what are the alternatives to the SSRIs

Answer 2

Tricyclics
SNRIs

Question 3

what are the strengths of drug therapy

Answer 3

Soomro et al (2009)
- reviewwed 17 studies that compared SSRIs to placebos in the treatment of OCD
- all studies showed better outcomes for SSRIs
- SSRIs reduce 70 % symptoms

Cost-effective and non-disruptive
- individuals can return to the workplace
- cheap and can be utilised easily by the public health system

Question 4

what are the limitations of drug therapy

Answer 4

Serious side effects
- can be temporary but also distressing
- help most people but some have side effects and can be serious
- some side effects have a long lasting effect
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