Treating OCD Flashcards
(7 cards)
what are the 6 AO1 points for treating OCD?
-Biological Approach to Treatment
-SSRIs as First-Line Treatment
-How SSRIs Work
-Time and Dosage of SSRIs
-Alternatives to SSRIs
-Drug Therapy Combined with CBT
What is the biological approach to treating OCD?
It focuses on drug therapy that alters the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. Since OCD is linked to abnormal serotonin function, drugs aim to increase serotonin availability to regulate mood and anxiety.
What are SSRIs and why are they used to treat OCD?
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), like fluoxetine, are the first-line treatment for OCD. They prevent the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin in the brain, increasing the amount available in the synaptic gap.
How do SSRIs work to reduce OCD symptoms?
By increasing serotonin activity, SSRIs help improve communication between neurons involved in mood regulation. This can decrease anxiety and reduce the frequency of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours.
How long do SSRIs take to work and what is a typical dosage?
SSRIs usually take around 3 to 4 months of daily use to become effective. The typical adult dose of fluoxetine is 20mg per day, but this can be increased depending on the patient’s response and tolerance.
What alternative drugs are used if SSRIs are ineffective?
Alternatives include:
Tricyclics, like clomipramine, which also increase serotonin but have more severe side effects.
SNRIs (serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors), which target both serotonin and noradrenaline, offering a broader effect on mood and anxiety.
How can drug therapy be combined with other treatments?
SSRIs are often prescribed alongside Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). The drug reduces emotional symptoms such as anxiety, allowing the individual to engage more effectively with the CBT process
