Biological Approach To Treating OCD Flashcards
What does SSRI stand for
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
According to Choy and Schneider (2008) which drug is the first line of treatment
SSRIs
What levels of serotonin are associated with OCD
Low levels
How do SSRIs work
The drugs block the neuron from reabsorbing the neurotransmitter
What does SNRI stand for
Serotonin & noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor
How do SNRIs work
Block the transporter mechanism that reabsorbs both serotonin and noradrenaline
Role of noradrenaline in OCD
Low levels = person is unable to focus their attention which may result in anxiety and compulsions
Why are SNRIs a second line treatment
They have greater side effects
What is the anti-anxiety drug called
Benzodiazepines
(Also known as Valium & diazepam)
What are benzodiazepines commonly used for
To reduce anxiety
Which neurotransmitter do benzodiazepines work on
GABA - which is an inhibitory neurotransmitter- calms and reduces the activity of neurons
When GABA docks at the receptor site of a neuron, what does it make it less likely to do
Fire an electrical signal (action potential)
