8) BioA to treating OCD

Question 1

How does the biological approach treat OCD

Answer 1

Drug therapy
- aim to change levels of neurotransmitters

Question 2

What’s an example of a drug taken by OCD patients + example and dosage

Answer 2

• SSRIs, prevents the reabsorption and breakdown of serotonin
• e.g fluoxetine 20mg a day

Question 3

How long do SSRIs often take to see a change in symptoms

Answer 3

3-4 months

Question 4

Can SSRIs and CBT be combines

Answer 4

Yes drugs allow calmer patients and therefore able to engage in CBT

Question 5

What are alternatives to SSRIs

Answer 5

• Tricyclics (have more side-effects)
• SNRIs

Question 6

EV - Drug therapy is effective

Answer 6

• Soomro reviewed 17 studies of SSRIs, all 17 showed better outcomes following placebo
• Symptoms typically reduce 70% for those takiNG SSRIs
• Meaning it is effective in treating OCD

Question 7

EV - Cost effective and non disruptive

Answer 7

• Cheap compared to psychological treatments
• So much easier to just take drugs and continue on normally with your day
• easier and more convenient

Question 8

EV - Reality of side effects

Answer 8

• Minority taking SSRIs have no effect or benefit
• Some people also experience side effects such as indigestion
• Clomipramine has more common side effects, 1/10 experience erection problems and weight gain
• It can have a negative effect on quality of life