OCD: Biological Treatment Flashcards
(21 cards)
What is the aim of drug therapy in treating OCD?
To increase the level of serotonin neurotransmitters in the brain.
What is the standard drug used to tackle the symptoms of OCD?
SSRIs.
What type of drugs are SSRIs?
Antidepressants.
What neuron is responsible for the re-absorption and breakdown of serotonin?
The presynaptic neuron.
What process is carried out by SSRIs?
They prevent the re-absorption and breakdown of serotonin.
What is the effect preventing the re-absorption and breakdown of serotonin?
Increases the level of serotonin in the synapse.
What is the effect of increaseing the level of serotonin in the synapse?
Stimulation of the postsynaptic synapse continues.
What is the typical dose of SSRIs?
20mg.
How long does it take for SSRIs to have much impact on the symptoms of OCD?
3-4 months.
What treatment is often paired with drug therapy?
Cognitive behavioural therapy.
Why is CBT often paired with drug therapy?
- Drug therapy often reduces the client’s emotional symptoms.
What is the benefit of reducing the client’s emotional symptoms in regards to CBT?
Allows them to effectively engage with it.
What antidepressants are available for those who do not respond to SSRIs?
- Clomipramine.
- SNRIs.
Why is clomipramine a secondary choice in treating OCD?
It has more severe side-effects than SSRIs.
What neurotransmitter does Clomipramine also release?
Noradrenaline.
What are the strengths of using drug therapy to treat OCD?
- Supporting research.
- Cost-effective.
- Non-disruptive
What research supports the effectiveness of drug therapy in treating OCD?
Soomro et al. (2009)
What was the method in Soomro et al. (2009)?
- Compared SSRIs to placebos.
What was found by Soomro et al. (2009)?
- Significantly better results from the SSRIs.
What is a limitation using of drug therapy to treat OCD?
- Side effects.
What side effects can arise when using SSRIs?
- Indigestion.
- Disruption to heart rhythm.
- Weight gain.
