Biological approach to treating OCD

Question 1

SSRI’s

Answer 1

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors

-block the reuptake and therefore breaking down of serotonin by the presynaptic neuron

-therefore increases the concentration of serotonin in the synapse

This means that the post-synaptic neuron is constantly stimulated and ALL the serotonin is going to it (rather than some being re-uptaken by the presynaptic neuron)

Question 2

What is an alternative to SSRI’s?

Answer 2

Tricyclics

Question 3

Tricyclics

Answer 3

Blocks the re-absorption of serotonin and noradrenaline into the presynaptic neuron

-Reserved for those who don’t respond well to SSRI’s, as Tricyclics can have severe side effects

Question 4

AO3 -

Serious side effects

Answer 4

Clomipramine (Tricyclic)

-1/10 users have erection problems

-Weight gain

-Tremors

-Increased aggression

Question 5

AO3 -

Not a lasting cure

Answer 5

Maina

-Patients relapse within a few weeks if drugs are not taken

This means that the drug treatment is not a lasting cure, so a better long term solution is psychotherapy like CBT

Question 6

AO3 +

Cost effective

Answer 6

Drug therapy is cheap compared to psychological treatments

-good value for public health organisations like the NHS

Question 7

AO3 +

Non-disruptive

Answer 7

Patients can take the drugs and still function normally in day to day life

-They don’t need to stay in hospital like other treatments

This has economic benefits. Patients are able to work and be productive in the workforce. On top of this, they will be making more taxable income which the government can benefit from