Biological approach to treating OCD

Question 1

Describe SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) Name: Fluoxetine (tradename: Prozac).

Answer 1

• 4-6 weeks to work
• Improvement reported in around 50-80 % cases OCD patients (Julien, 2005)
• Selectively blocks the reuptake of the neurotransmitter serotonin
• Other notes: Does not prevent anxiety-inducing thoughts but may reduce levels of anxiety caused
• Side effects
• Nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, anxiety, trouble sleeping, loss of appetite, tiredness, sweating, or yawning may occur.
• Erectile dysfunction, suicidal thoughts

Question 2

Describe Tricyclic Name: Clomipramine (tradename: Anafranil) – this is an older type of antidepressant

Answer 2

• Block the transporter mechanism that re-absorbs both serotonin and noradrenaline
  -Side effects:
  blurred vision
  Other notes:
  Only prescribed if SSRI’s have not worked

Question 3

Evaluate the biological approach to treating OCD.

Answer 3

Strengths:
+Research support– SSRI’s shown to be more effective than a placebo (Soomro et al)
70% Had reduced symptoms
+ Cost effective and ease of use – economic implications
+ Most available research suggests that medication is better than none at all in severe cases of OCD.
Weaknesses:
- Counterpoint: Serious side effects such as seizures. Other research shows CBT is more effective.
- Counterpoint: Does not deal with cause, perhaps not long term.
- Counterpoint: Biased research: sponsor bias- e.g. drug companies sponsor/fund researchers so more likely to fund research that will make them money.